About Shinrin-Yoku / Nature & Forest Therapy / Forest Bathing

Whatever you call it, it’s a restorative, immersive experience in nature. And it’s open to all, regardless of physical ability, age, gender, ethnicity, or religious beliefs. Here’s what you should know.

Background

The practice of shinrin-yoku started in Japan in the 1980s. It was developed to fight stress-related diseases of the mind and body. This was especially critical as more people were spending their lives in urban areas and indoors.

Early research showed that the practice could reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, improve concentration, and increase immune system functioning. This led the Japanese government to sponsor shinrin-yoku programs as part of the country’s health-care program. The government also established specially designed parks for the practice.

Nature and forest therapy is a research-based framework. It supports healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. It’s a guided practice of deliberately slowing down and enhancing mindfulness while taking time to wander, notice, and inquire.

The practice is an opportunity to connect with self and the natural world. It slows us down and engages the five basic senses – sight, touch, sound, taste, and smell. But it also involves up to eight other senses outside of our everyday, normal awareness.

Nature and forest therapy is widely practiced as a public-health initiative and preventative medicine. It’s recognized as an evidence-based, cost-effective way to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, increase immune system function, and shorten recovery time.

The practice is not a hike – you don’t go that far or that fast. Even though it’s sometimes called forest bathing, it doesn’t involve taking off your clothes or getting wet.

Nature and forest therapy isn’t a nature talk about botany or geology. It’s not a deep-woods wilderness hike, nor is it clinical therapy or a counseling session.

Benefits

Studies have shown that nature and forest therapy can be especially beneficial to thecardiovascular, nervous, and immune systems. It can decrease blood pressure, increase immune function, and improve sleep, focus, concentration, and memory. Nature and forest therapy has also been shown to shorten recovery time after illness or surgery.

Participants are likely to experience a range of mental benefits and learn how to cultivate meaningful mind-body connections in the natural world. At the very least, most participants report feeling a heightened sense of calm and relaxation. Benefits will vary for each participant, but nature and forest therapy may also address:

  • Stress, anxiety, and depression
  • PTSD
  • Deficit disorders
  • Isolation and loneliness
  • Feelings of disconnection and not being supported
  • Difficulties maintaining focus or concentration
  • Difficulties with sleep
The practice helps people feel connected to each other and to the natural world. It slows down our usual busy pace and encourages a sense of wellbeing. It can also open up creativity and improve overall mood.

What to Expect

No – it’s much more. Our certified guides apply a research-based framework. It facilitates sensory exploration, mind-body connection, and contact with present place and time. Nature and forest therapy also encourages healing interactions in the natural environment and liminality – a time of transition when we can just be present.
No. A certified guide is needed to apply the research-based framework and facilitate the experience. However, anyone can spend time in nature on their own and benefit from doing so.

At Rewylded, all of our walks are led by a certified nature and forest therapy guide. These guides are trained over six-months to follow a scope of practice and a set of professional standards.

Sessions are designed for participants of all fitness levels and physical abilities. We proactively work to ensure everyone has a safe experience. With that in mind, our guides are certified in CPR and wilderness first aid.

Each walk is different, but rooted in the idea that individuals already have a connection to nature. Our guides help them find their unique way of bringing it forth.

Nature and forest therapy sessions include a combination of sitting in one place and walking at a pace that’s much slower than normal. Throughout the walk, the guide invites participants to engage their senses through guided activity. Each of these invitations can last between 10 and 20 minutes.

After each invitation, participants come together in a circle to share their nature-connection experiences. It’s an environment that encourages deep listening and inclusivity.

Sharing is an important aspect of nature and forest therapy. It helps participants overcome feelings of isolation. Witnessing other participant’s observations and experiences also increases awareness and connection.

Walks always end with a tea ceremony. Participants enjoy light snacks and tea foraged from native plants. They also share their experiences and bring the walk to a close.

Sessions last from two to three hours. Participants typically walk a mile or less.

Above all else, you can expect safe, meaningful interaction with nature and other participants

Logistics

It depends. But Rewylded limits public walks to no more than 12 participants.

If you opt for a private walk, you’ll determine the number of participants.

No. Sessions are intended for people of all fitness levels and physical capabilities.

If you wish. At various times during a public session, the guide will encourage you to share your experience with the group. But this is not required. Many participants gain peace and balance by sharing their encounters with nature.

You can also have a private walk. See Services & Pricing for more information.

Reywlded hosts sessions rain or shine. However, your safety is of utmost concern. We will not hold sessions in hazardous conditions.
Nature and forest therapy sessions usually cover from half a mile to one mile.
Yes. Sessions are designed to be accessible to all people. If you’re unsure, check with your doctor. And if you require special consideration, please let us know when you schedule your walk.
You’ll want to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You may wish to bring water, snacks, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a journal. Also bring an EpiPen or fast-acting medication if needed.
If you must bring your phone, please turn it off for the duration of the session.
Have additional questions? Ready to schedule your nature and forest therapy? Contact us!
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