Join UPlift with Tracy for a mindfulness-based "Freedom Hike" to the Stone Quarry from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, October 25. The event will include a guided hike, journaling exercises, meditation, and an uplifting group discussion. (Photo from the Chenango Greenway Conservancy Facebook page)

NORWICH — Learn about and practice mindfulness at the "Freedom Hike" to the Stone Quarry from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, October 25, sponsored by the Turning Point of Chenango County and led by UPlift with Tracy Owner Tracy Owens.

The event is free and open to the public. Pre-registration is not required, however, those who pre-register will ensure they receive a free journal to use for the hike's activities and take home with them. To RSVP, contact UPlift with Tracy at 607-288-2453.

The group will meet at the Turning Point, located at 24 East Main Street in Norwich, before heading out to the Stone Quarry trails. Owens said depending on interest and transportation availability, rides to the trail entrance may be available.

The hike is approximately one-mile long and uphill, and will be guided by Owens. She said spending time in nature can be extremely beneficial for mental health and overall wellbeing.

"We are electrical beings. There’s an electrical pulse in our heart and our brain, and the Earth does too, and when you can connect your skin to the Earth, it’s almost like recharging a battery," said Owens. "There’s something very soothing and re-energizing just to go out in nature."

After reaching the Stone Quarry, participants will get to check out an overview of the City of Norwich before beginning the event's mindfulness activities.