frequently asked questions

Forest bathing is the act of immersing oneself in the forest (or around trees). Developed in the early 1980s by the Japanese, it was originally a solution to the health epidemic that their government had seen as a result of urbanization. After researching the health benefits of being in the forest, the government continued to invest time, money, and resources into further research and the development of certified forest bathing forests.

Forest therapy is a variety of forest bathing that integrates embodiment invitations to help participants connect with nature (aka the More Than Human world or the wild world), their body and senses, and each other. Developed by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, relational forest therapy walks are rooted in reciprocity with the More Than Human World. We must care for it and it will continue to care for us.

Trained forest therapy guides provide you with opportunities to explore your edges that you may otherwise shy away from on your own. As a guide, it is my role to facilitate opportunities for you to to connect with the forest, your own body, and the others in attendance. The forest is the therapist, I open the doors.

No. I am not a clinical therapist, psychotherapist, or mental health professional. Forest therapy is a modality that can help with mental health and well-being but it is not a replacement for professional advice and treatment.

Decreased stress levels through activating the rest and relax portion of the nervous system as well as the physiological response to phytoncides released by the trees. These phytoncides help lower stress hormones which leads to lower blood pressure and heart rate. They also improve our immune system by triggering the creation of more natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells target cancer cells and virus infected cells.

Lower stress levels help our minds process emotions and get out of the fight or flight mode. Chronic stress may lead to burn out and increased absences from work, withdrawal from friends and family, and depression. Connectedness with nature has been documented to help reduce stress levels and the physical health benefits support this.

We will spend 2-3 hours within the forest doing embodiment invitations and sharing circles. At the end of the walk, just before we part ways, we will participate in a closing circle where tea and light snacks will be provided (dependent on location and size of group).

Forest bathing and forest therapy walks are low intensity walks. They are not meant to replace a workout, but instead are slower and more intentional wanders. We would suggest being able to stand for an extended amount of time and being able to stand up from a seated position on the ground, however there are some trail that we will guide on that are accessible. One way we have seen it explained which we think sums up the experience well is "forest bathing is not about the destination, it's about the journey."

I'm a firm believer that all weather types provide us each with support and challenges. Walks will take place rain or shine or snow, unless conditions are unsafe. A weather call will be made by 8:30 AM the day of the walk, however, we all know Indiana weather can be fickle and change rapidly so please use your best discretion. If the walk must be cancelled, you will receive a voucher to use for a walk on another day. Please use your own discretion based on your personal needs, but know that no refunds will be made due to weather. Unsafe conditions may include but are not limited to lightening, tornados, temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit with rain etc.

Wear whatever you are comfortable exploring the outdoors in, being mindful of weather conditions. I personally would recommend closed toed shoes like running shoes, water shoes, or hiking boots.

The only things you need to bring are water and any medical items you may need such as an epipen or glucose tablets. Other items you may consider - additional clothing, camera, journal and writing utensil, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses etc.