We move slowly, quiet our minds, and awaken our senses to the experience of being in the forest.
Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which is described as an immersion in the atmosphere of the forest.
A walk is usually 2.5 hours long, but may be 1.5 or 3 hours. We move slowly, pause often and don't go far, so a high level of fitness isn't necessary. Some walks are on wheelchair-accessible trails. After you register, I'll let you know what to bring, what to wear, and I'll ask you about any relevant allergies or health concerns. We meet up and head down the trail together. The Guide leads a sequence of invitations, for solo exploration or sometimes in pairs. These support you in quieting your mind and awakening to the gifts of the forest. The invitations often prompt you to tune in to a particular sense -- sight, hearing, touch, even your "imaginal sense". The guide periodically calls everyone back together and offers people the opportunity to share stories or insights from their explorations. There's no pressure to speak when we gather together. We end the walk with snacks and tea, made from plants from the trail we've just walked, and a chance to share any final reflections. |
"Many of us have become alienated from the Earth... We work too hard, our lives are too busy, and we are restless and distracted...
But the Earth is always there for us, offering us everything we need for our nourishment and healing."
- Thich Nhat Hanh. Click here for full article.
But the Earth is always there for us, offering us everything we need for our nourishment and healing."
- Thich Nhat Hanh. Click here for full article.