Forest Therapy is a practice where in a 3 hour gentle guided walk we are invited to slow down and connect to our senses allowing us to connect to nature with our whole self. In this reconnection process we have the opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, with nature and with other participants on the walk. It is an evidence based practice that supports physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.
Forest Therapy
Forest Therapy and Forest Bathing are inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, literally meaning to take in the forest atmosphere.
Shinrin-Yoku
Shinrin-Yoku took shape in Japan in the 80’s as a response of the Japanese Government to the increasing number of stress related disorders in the overworked population. Today it is one of the cornerstones of preventative Public Health with over 60 official Shinrin-Yoku centers in Japan alone.
Health Benefits of Forest Therapy
Health benefits of Forest Bathing include boosting the immune system by stimulating the production of Natural Killer (NK) cells that are responsible for combating infections and cancer cells, regulation of blood pressure, stress reduction, improved sleep resulting in the ability to create more clarity and peace of mind and improved creativity.
Scientific Evidence
There is a strong body of scientific evidence that demonstrates the health benefits of the practice of Forest Bathing like the 2017 review by Margaret Hansen published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health – Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State of the Art review creativity and focus.
Re-Tuning to the Frequency of the Natural World
Forest Bathing is a practice that supports presence and re-tunes us to the frequency of nature. During a walk you will learn simple tools to take back home with you, empowering you to continue your own practice of nature connection, restoring and revitalizing both body and mind.
Reconnecting to ourselves, each other and Nature
A simple, effective and profound experience to support authentic reconnection
We live very fast paced lives where, in order to survive, most of us numb ourselves, so as not to feel. For example staring at the television or phone. In Forest Therapy, through a gentle and conscious awakening of the senses, we are offered the opportunity to become more present and to relate to the world, fully. This practice allows us to become more aware of ourselves and our real needs, more aware of the world around us and the people in it. Forest Therapy is a heart centered practice that allows us to fall in love with ourselves and nature. It supports us to remember that we are nature and that we are part of a web of life where all beings are equal, kin and interconnected.
Yugen
“In Japanese we have a word for those feelings that are too deep for words: yugen. Yugen gives us a profound sense of the beauty and mystery of the universe.”
Dr. Qing Li