Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) - Sunday, October 22, 2023
Sunday, October 22: Join Janice Smith, VMF’s Education Coordinator and Certified Forest Therapy Guide, on a guided Forest Bathing walk at VMF's Volcan Mountain Nature Center. This is a new program of bi-monthly Forest Bathing walks offered through VMF.
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest Bathing, also called Forest Therapy or Shinrin-Yoku, is a practice that supports healing and wellness through guided sensory immersion in forests and other natural environments. It is not a hike with a destination or goal, rather a series of guided open invitations aimed at slowing down and taking time to wander and notice nature while engaging your senses.These experiences can cultivate meaningful connections with the natural world.
Shinrin-Yoku originated in Japan in the 1980’s to address a spike in stress related illness during the new tech boom. Shinrin in Japanese means “forest” and yoku means “bath.” So Shinrin-Yoku means bathing in the forest atmosphere or taking in the forest through your senses with the intention of receiving therapeutic benefits. Decades of scientific research has shown positive preventive health effects from this practice, including cardiovascular, immunological, and psychological benefits.
During Forest Bathing walks, people have a wide range of experiences, some of which are significant and even profound. Your guide is trained to be a supportive witness of these experiences. The phrase often used to explain the healing impact nature has on people is, “The forest is the therapist and the guide opens the door.”
The walk ends with a tea ceremony, using foraged local plants made by the guide.
These walks follow a standard sequence as defined by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy from where Janice received her certificate. You can learn more about it here: www.natureandforesttherapy.earth
Note: This experience is for adults only and is limited to 10 participants.
Date: Sunday,October 22
Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Cost: $25 per person
Wear: Comfortable walking or hiking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
Bring: Water, snacks and/or lunch, and a day/back pack so your hands are free.
Workshop Location: VMF's Volcan Mountain Nature Center. Due to the gated entry for VMF's Volcan Mountain Nature Center (22850 Volcan Road, Julian, CA), please plan to arrive between by 9:45.