The Benchetler Fasani Foundation had the privilege of meeting four individuals for the `24 program. Early in the year, the team at BFF envisioned a program that would offer a rejuvenating experience outdoors to local individuals who have experienced hardship. Inyo and Mono County provide beautiful terrain for outdoor adventures, but access does not look the same for everyone. The team at BFF curated a program that would help decrease barriers to various activities. The foundation partnered with local businesses that provided the participants with appropriate gear and emotional/mental support so that they could feel confident and capable participating in new experiences.
To start the first day, the participants were fitted into climbing gear by Sierra Mountain Guides and hiked up Crystal Lake trail. During the short hike, the guides took the opportunity to begin the trust process with the participants. Stories and laughter could be heard as the group moved their way up the forest landscape. The lessons began when the group arrived around Crystal Lake. The guides, Howie and Paloma, provided a safe place to teach the basics of multi pitch climbing. Once they felt the participants were ready, the group moved up the trail and settled under the towering Crystal Crag. The energy was buzzing! The participants shared how nervous they were to approach such an intimidating project. Kimmy, BFF founder, gave wise words to increase the participants’ confidence. After an inspiring message, the group began moving up the crag. Magic happened during the process of navigating hand and foot holds. Camaraderie was present as they shared words of encouragement with each other. After the group was done, they were radiating positive energy. The fear from the morning was replaced with pride. They did that! They took the opportunity to show themselves that humans can do hard things. After a physically and mentally challenging activity, the group met with a local mental health professional and advocate. During this time, Gabbi, AMFT, provided a safe place for the participants to decompress. Gabbi also introduced different tools that provide a healthy way to process daily stressors. The participants shared that they were able to connect with Gabbi and the therapeutic experience.
After a day of high energy, BFF partnered with Yoga Eastern Sierra to provide activities that encourage mindfulness and body connection. The second day started at Silver Lake where E, the owner of Y.E.S., took the participants down the “Jungle Cruise” on stand-up paddle boards. E encouraged them to be aware of their surroundings and take note of the calmness that they witnessed while being on the tranquil water. After the cruise, the participants met on a grassy patch to practice restorative yoga. E led the participants in a much-needed gentle flow to help alleviate tension that could be stored in the body. E’s peaceful tone matched the serene landscape of calm lake water and the occasional swimming duck. Later in the evening, the group met back up with E at the lakes basin to continue exploring practices that promote mindfulness. Before the main afternoon activity, She led the group in a community trash clean up. As She shared, cleaning up our environment is an act of selflessness that can stimulate our brain. We can experience instant gratification as we see change in our environment. We can experience a rush of happy hormones when we see our actions bring more beauty to the outdoors. Once the trash was properly disposed of, the group prepared for a lakeside sound bath and breath work meditation. The participants lay comfortably under blankets as E gave guidance on different breath techniques. Each sound bowl had a unique vibration that was awakened with her bowl mallet. The day with E reminded the group to pause, breathe, and be present.
The third day was a short day, but with another exciting activity. The participants met at the base of Mammoth Mountain and were fitted with gear to tackle the dirt trails. They shared that they had never been mountain biking before, and they were ready to embark on another new experience. With a guide, the participants were able to learn the basics, and then they were off jumping on a lift. They got an adrenaline rush as they took off from the top of the mountain back down the main lodge. What an experience! After mountain biking, the group had a fantastic lunch prepared by local Michell M. The group hugged, said their goodbyes, and prepared their luggage to return home. As one of the participants shared, the `24 Fall Program provided a rejuvenating experience that will help them as they navigate life’s journey.
