Postcard of the Senses
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What does it mean to make “sense” of a place? Most of us rely so heavily on our sense of sight that the other four senses become almost trivial. Yet with only sight places become simply postcards. Every sense has something to add in making “sense” of a place. Use this exercise to start with sight but go beyond your eyes into the world of other senses.
SIGHT: Pick out one small detail – a leaf, a stone, a blade of grass – and describe it:

SOUNDS: Now, with your eyes closed, sit perfectly still for at least 5 minutes. When you are done make a list of the different natural sounds you heard. Describe one: 

TOUCH: Pick out two things, one rough and one soft, close your eyes and touch them one at a time noting even the smallest detail. Use similes to describe the texture of each:

SMELL: Pick something to smell, take your time, close your eyes, search for even the faintest scent and then describe it:

TASTE: We are not accustomed to “tasting” things in the wild, yet it can be a powerful sense: wild blueberries, cool mountain water, sweet clover. Find something safe to taste: a blade of grass, stick your tongue on a rock, bite a bit of leaf, and describe it:

Now do a drawing, take a picture, or write a short “postcard” using your best sensory details to capture the “sense” of your place you have just experienced.

Write below or take a picture of your drawing and send it to Jeff Garrett jeffery.byc@gmail.com

Optional: Share your name (first & last) if you are comfortable doing so.

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