Forest therapy, or Shinrin-yoku, isa slow, sensory-focused practice of connecting with nature for wellness, offering stress reduction, improved mood, better focus, adn immune support through phytoncides. Guides aren't licensed mental health therapists and the practice is not clinical, but communal and reciprocal.

What it is & isn't

• What it is: A mindful immersion in nature to calm the mind and body, using all senses, not hiking for exercise.

• What it isn't: A strenuous hike, a replacement for medical/mental health treatment, or limited to deep wilderness.

• Mental: Reduces stress, anxiety, depression; improves mood, focus, creativity, and sleep.

• Physical: Boosts immune system (phytoncides), lowers blood pressure, speeds recovery. 

Li, Qing. “Effects of Forest Environment (Shinrin-yoku/Forest Bathing) on Health Promotion and Disease Prevention — the Establishment of ‘Forest Medicine’.” Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, vol. 27, 2022, p. 43, PMC9665958, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9665958/

• Duration: Usually 90 minutes -3 hours.

• Distance: Very short (under a mile) as it's slow-paced.

• Activities: Guided invitations to notice sights, sounds, smells, textures, and even taste (tea).

• Location: Can be in forests, parks, or gardens; quieter spots are often preferred

• Participants should dress comfortably, bring water, and be aware of risks like bugs or uneven terrain.

Sign up for a community session! There’s no prerequisite.

I prefer a maximum of 10 people so everyone has the opportunity to share in the program.

I am working on my guide certification through the internationally recognized Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and expect to be fully certified by July 2026. Training includes over 200 hours of learning adn practice. I am also current in Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid, AED/CPR, and Wilderness First Aid.

To keep sessions calm, inclusive, and intentional, pets are not permitted.

• Forest therapy is a slow, sensory practice. Pets can unintentionally disrupt the pace and shared attention of the group.

• Some participants may have allergies, fears, or trauma responses related to animals.

• Unfamiliar environments, wildlife, and new people can be stressful or unpredictable for pets.

• A pet-free space helps us minimize impact on the land and local wildlife.

• Sessions are designed to support direct relationship with the natural world, without added distractions.

Thank you for helping create a safe, accessible, and respectful container for this work.