What is
Forest Therapy?
Forest therapy is a way to reconnect with nature and improve your mental and physical health by mindfully spending time in a natural outdoor setting.
Forest Therapy guides help facilitate a connection to the natural environment through a series of invitations that cultivate mindfulness, calm, and well-being. Activities include walking, meditating, sitting in silence, and mindful observing of nature. This approach is based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or Forest Bathing, though we acknowledge that there is a long tradition of this type of experience in cultures throughout the world.
Benefits of Forest Therapy
Studies have shown that forest therapy can:
- Reduce blood pressure and heart rate
- Reduce cortisol levels which can lower stress, reduce risk for heart disease, reduce anxiety, depression, and weight problems
- Improve memory and concentration
- Improve immune system, including increased Natural Killer (NK) cells
- Improve parasympathetic nerve activity leading to better sleep
- Reduce sympathetic nerve activity
- Reduce impacts of stressful events
- Improve sense of wellbeing
- Improve attention and focus
Forest Therapy Experiences
Connect With a guide
Looking to participate in a Forest Therapy experience?
Check out our events page to join one of our scheduled forest therapy programs or take a look at our list of certified guides.