What is it?
Forest therapy is a guided outdoor healing practice inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku or “forest bathing.” Unlike a hike or guided nature walk aimed at identifying trees or birds, forest therapy relies on certified guides who set a deliberately slow pace and invite people to experience the pleasures of nature through all their senses. The practice encourages people to be present in the body, enjoying the sensation of being alive and deriving profound benefits from the relationship between ourselves and the rest of the natural world.
Why should I do it?
The mental and physical health benefits are considerable. Research has found the immune system to be strengthened with an increase in the count of the body’s Natural Killer cells (one type of white blood cell). Other benefits include reduced blood pressure, reduced stress, improved moods, increased ability to focus, accelerated recovery from surgery or illness, increased energy level and improved sleep.
Besides the impact on health, forest bathing allows a person to expand their self-awareness and hence intuition. Participants also find that it opens the flow of creativity and insight. Additionally, there is an opportunity to share their experience with like-minded individuals and create a deeper relationship with nature.
Why is there a guide?
Research has found that when people just go for a walk in the woods, they are often distracted by extraneous thoughts or are talking with another person about life situations. This distraction does not allow for focused attention on the environment and is not as refreshing as a guided forest therapy walk. Plus, a guide is able to invite you to focus on certain sensory activities that will aid attention.
Who is the guide?
Camille Bunting will be your guide. Camille is Associate Professor Emerita at Texas A&M University, and is now living in Austin. She was an active professional in the field of experiential education and outdoor adventure leadership for 35 years, and is a certified Forest Therapy Guide by the international Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.
What do you do?
The practice of forest bathing is typically referred to as a “walk.” The goal is not to cover distance and generally the distance is not over a mile. Walks can last from 2 to 3 hours, but are generally not longer than 2 1⁄2 hours, and you are not walking the whole time. Invitations are offered by the guide that give you the opportunity to activate your various senses and experience the sensation of actually paying attention to how it feels. The leisurely pace and focused attention on the natural environment are quite relaxing.
How do I give it a try?
For more information and/or to schedule a walk for one to 12 people, please complete and submit the form below. You will receive a response via email and we will set a date, time and location. The price for 1 to 2 people = $60, 3+ = $25/person. Payment can be in cash, by PayPal, or Venmo.
