Witness The Rhythm Of Nature At The Earth Clock In Burlington, VT

Do the words real estate, mortgages, and refinancing cause a spike in your stress level? If you’re actively involved in any of those processes, you likely need a moment to step back from the paperwork frenzy. If you need to re-balance and center your inner clock, then check out the Burlington Earth Clock. It’s a great place to sit back, take a deep breath and watch the sun set over Lake Champlain. Bring along the kids for some outside fun, and treat them to an astronomy lesson.

The stone-made structure was built in 2006 by the non-profit organization Circles for Peace. Their philosophy is that by staying in tune with the cycles of nature, people regain their inner peace. The land was provided to the organization by the Burlington Parks and Recreation Department; construction was funded by private donations. Fourteen granite stones, weighing between 3.5 and 20 tons, have been precisely arranged to serve as a calendar and compass. A granite sundial is in the center of the clock.

The stones on the eastern edge of the circle are specifically spaced for astronomical observations. The five stones on the western edge face the Adirondack Mountains. Each one of those stones marks a point in the sun’s journey through the seasons. If it’s been a while since your last science class, then consult the educational board near the clock. The equinoxes and solstices are explained on the board along with instructions for using the sundial. Kids and adults enjoy standing on the center rock and watching their shadows mark the time of day.

In the future, Circles for Peace is planning the addition of a display board for posting children’s poetry, artwork and science projects. The clock is already a common destination for classroom field trips. The area is also used by yoga, tai chi and other exercise enthusiasts.

The clock is off the bike path at Blanchard Beach just north of Oakledge Park. The 2400 foot waterfront boasts a swimming beach and rocky shoreline. The park facilities include a playground, walking trails, tennis courts and picnic areas with grills.

Head over to the Burlington Earth Clock; center your inner clock and enjoy a sunset.

via http://michaelblanchard.benchmark.us/2013/10/25/witness-the-rhythm-of-nature-at-the-earth-clock-in-burlington-vt/