What is Forest Therapy?

“Forest Therapy is a practice that supports health and wellness through guided immersion in forests and other environments to promote the well-being of both people and the land.”

~Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT)

 

Forest Therapy is inspired by Shinrin Yoku which started in Japan and translates to “Forest Bathing”. Research supports that spending time “bathing” in the sights, sounds, smells, textures and colors of a forest are beneficial to our body and mind.

 

What To Expect On A Forest Therapy Walk?

Forest Therapy guides intentionally cultivate a slow moving experience through the landscape bringing attention to the experience of the body, of the senses, and of the surrounding environment.

 

A sequence of “invitations” is offered to help participants tune into their senses and receive input from the natural world. There is no right or wrong way to do an invitation. Invitations are open-ended and participants will likely come away with very individual experiences.

 

Walks are generally 2-3 hours, ending with a closing tea. Distance walked is about 1 mile.

 

Benefits of Forest Therapy:

• decreases stress, cortisol, and stress related depression/mood disorders

• regulates blood pressure & heart rate

• boosts immune system

• relaxes the prefrontal cortex through involuntary attention (Attention Restoration Theory)

• activates the parasympathetic nervous system to the "Rest & Digest" state

• alleviates anxiety

• enhances focus & creativity

• increases compassion

• increases prosocial behavior

• cultivates a reciprocal relationship with the more-than-human world 

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“The Forest is the therapist, and the Guide opens the doors.”