Who should take this series?

Anyone 16 and older with curiosity about how the body and microbes affect sleep, digestion, immunity, and daily performance.

Do I need prior biology training?

No—no prior coursework or lab experience is required; the series is designed to be accessible and practical.

How is each session structured?

Sessions mix an illustrated talk, an interactive demonstration or data walkthrough, and time for questions and practical takeaways.

Can this help my outdoor performance?

Yes—the series focuses on recovery, sleep, hydration, and immune basics that directly affect endurance and resilience outdoors.

Is registration required?

Yes—space is limited; register via the referral link to secure a spot for the five-week series.

Are refunds or transfers available?

Check the booking page linked in the referral link for the host’s current refund and transfer policy.

Biology for the Rest of Us: 5-Week Practical Science Series in Ames, Iowa

Biology for the Rest of Us (5-wk SERIES) is a five-week evening course in Ames, Iowa hosted by reimangardens that translates lab jargon into practical know‑how for anyone who wants to understand the bodies they live in and the microbial passengers along for the ride. Running Thursdays, Apr 2–30 from 6–7:30 PM, the series walks through immune defenses, the human microbiome, sleep science, basic metabolism, and practical ways to apply biology to everyday choices—especially useful if you spend time outside and want to optimize recovery, hydration, and resilience on trail and river. Classes combine concise explanation, real-world examples, and guided demonstrations so complex concepts land fast. Expect clear answers on how the immune system recognizes threats, why gut microbes influence mood and digestion, what sleep really does for cellular repair, and how simple changes can improve energy and recovery. The curriculum is pitched to ages 16 and up and assumes no prior training—this is biology with the jargon left at the door. What makes this series stand out in Ames is its focus on translating lab-scale discoveries into actions that matter for local residents and visitors. Rather than dense theory, instructors focus on scenarios you’ll recognize: planning a multi-day hike, managing a week of poor sleep before a race, or minimizing illness risk during group trips. That practical orientation turns abstract science into a toolkit you can use at home and on the trail. Beyond content, the format is welcoming: a small-class setting that encourages questions and conversation, and five compact sessions that fit a busy schedule. The timing—early evenings over a single month—means you can dive in without a long-term commitment. For learners who enjoy hands-on museums or community education, this series is a bridge between casual curiosity and meaningful competence. Each session follows a clear structure: an illustrated talk, an interactive segment with demonstrations or data walkthroughs, and time for questions and practical takeaways. You’ll leave each night with a short checklist—sleep routines to try, dietary tweaks to support gut health, and simple field-first-aid pointers tied to immune basics. Instructors welcome real-world questions about illness, sleep disruptions, or plans for extended outdoor trips. The series tends to create a small cohort of learners who trade field-tested tips after class, turning private curiosity into practical community knowledge. It’s ideal for weekend adventurers and commuters.

About Reiman Gardens

Reiman Gardens in Ames, Iowa offers year-round horticultural displays, seasonal events, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities that engage families, students, and garden enthusiasts. The facility hosts a variety of public experiences including speaker series, guided and self-guided tours, hands-on youth day camps, and specialized workshops such as dried floral wreath making and floral design. Signature experiences include the Christina Reiman Butterfly Wing — open daily and featuring up to 800 live butterflies from around 80 species — plus seasonal highlights like Butterfly Blizzard and Nature at NIGHT.

Reiman Gardens programs combine accessible outdoor activities with instructional series and community-focused nights. Regular offerings include Nature with Nathan, a six-part entomology speaker series; Rovers at Reiman dog-friendly evenings; Garden Flow six-week gentle stretching sessions; Nature Journaling workshops; and members-only Wednesday walking club access. Community events range from Autumn Equinox Gothic Soiree (ages 18+) to Trivia Nights, Maker Nights, and seasonal forest bathing walks. Volunteer roles support Spirits in the Gardens (October 10–12), Pumpkin Prep, Butterfly Wing docent training, seasonal gardening and displays, and group volunteer opportunities. Reiman Gardens also offers admissions options, guided tours for youth and adults, and special previews like RG Express and Bonsai Show Member Preview. All program descriptions, schedules, and registration details are published by Reiman Gardens; visitors should consult official listings for dates, age requirements, and availability.

Members' Wednesday Walking Club meets Wednesday mornings and provides access to the Butterfly Wing and Conservatory beginning at 9:00 AM, offering a quieter visit and the chance to see horticulturalists at work.