The Rural Intelligence region offers a plethora of fitness and healing modalities, but it can be hard to know which is the one that fits your needs, your body type and your schedule. Enter Paula Boyajian, a yoga instructor certified in Interdisciplinary Yoga and Yoga for the Special Child, who has taken on the role of RI’s fitness contributor to sleuth out the details of the many health and wellness options in our area.
With hand upon my heart and eyes cast toward the heavens, from where I’m certain my saintly grandma Lena follows my every move, I vow that I did not hike dog-friendly Field Farm in Williamstown just to get my puppy, Angus, pictured on Rural Intelligence again. I also assert that if you — with or without man and woman’s best friend — explore the property even on the coldest of days, you’ll enjoy sweeping landscapes, remarkable modern art and a workout that is truly inspiring. What Is It?After serving in World War II, Williams College librarian and heir to the Pacific Northwest Timber fortune Lawrence Bloedel purchased the former Nathan Field farm and had two houses built by noted architect Edwin Goodel. Thoughts of Frank Lloyd Wright come to mind given how seamlessly both sophisticated structures blend into their organic surroundings. In 1984, the property was donated to the Trustees of Reservations. Today, Bloedel’s home is an inn while the other is open for tours. The surrounding 300-plus acres offer a variety of hiking paths: one circles a pond, another follows a stream and yet another leads to caves.
Activity LevelMost paths are relatively flat and all are easy to access. With four miles of trails and plenty of open fields, you can stroll, run, cross-country ski, snow shoe or just move in any way that’s challenging, fun and appropriate for you. Hiking with Angus, who is new to a leash, I also spun to keep track of him, ran to keep up with him and balanced to untangle his leash (mostly from my legs). With about five inches of snow to deal with, I was keenly aware of firmly connecting to the earth with each step. It reminded me of the Dr. Scholl’s sandals that were so popular in my teenage days; you had to grasp the sandals tightly with your toes to keep them on and as a result your legs were exercised. And so it went, while hiking Field Farm. From feet to buttocks, my muscles got a nice workout and my coordination got a boost. I was there for about 45 minutes, but in order to follow all paths, allow 1-½ hours. BenefitsMy legs worked hard and my heart got pumping. As physically energized as I felt, I felt equally privileged to live where I do. On a cold, bright Saturday morning, I had the entire place to myself. Frolicking in the snow and playing with Angus took years off my age, not just because of the exercise but because I became a kid enjoying a snow day again. I realize that some exercise trends may not be available if you’re not in a big city. However, I embrace what we do have and what sets us apart from a bustling metropolis: art, history and nature together in our backyard or — in this case — at Field Farm.
Instructor InfoIt’s all up to you, so challenge yourself, but monitor your pace; bring water (even in the cold weather) and dress in layers. Supportive and warm hiking shoes or snow boots are a must. And you know your pet best — some will benefit from a sweater and booties (or a protective paw balm). Please note: All pooches must be on a leash and if you want to snow shoe or ski, bring your own equipment. Facility/AmbienceTucked between the Berkshire Mountains and the Taconics, this is New England’s earliest historic house museum. In addition to the sophisticated architecture and stunning panorama, works by sculptors such as Richard M. Miller and Bernard Reder provide additional feasts for the eyes and soul. And as you ramble through trails and over fields, keep your eyes open for Mother Nature’s works of art like white tail deer, members of an active beaver colony and swooping red-tailed hawks. CostHiking is free. Special events (such as the guided hikes on February 1 and 22) are free to all children and members of the Trustees; $5 for nonmember adults. Field Farm554 Sloan Road, Williamstown, MA (413) 298-3239
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A rendering of a proposed sign by Norm Magnusson.
- Norm Magnusson
Pam Ellis performs at the Bercshire South Community Center.
Alicia Johnson and Catherine Zack preside over a Buried Treasure workshop at Village Yoga. (Photos Provided by Alicia Johnson)
