Slow down and experience nature's everyday wonders on a forest bathing walk
I have worked with Veterans at the Lyons and East Orange VA Medical Centers, teaching them about plants and gardening for their physical and mental health. I also work at the Center for Great Expectations in Somerset, a residential recovery program for women with young children.
During COVID, I took to the woods and along with the wonder and joy the forest always gives me, I also found peace and calm I sorely needed. I heard about forest bathing and wanted to bring that magical experience to others. I earned my certificate as a Forest Therapy Guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy in July 2022, and have led walks in New Jersey at the Ironbound Farm and Ciderhouse in Asbury and at Whittemore CCC in Oldwick. I have also led walks with several groups of Veterans in residential programs at the Lyons VA Medical Center.
I also hold custom walks for private events (birthdays, reunions, etc.) in parks or on land chosen by the host.
Join me and see all that my slice of NJ has to offer you through the lens of forest bathing.
Forest bathing has been around since the 1980s, getting its start in Japan where it is called “Shinrin -yoku”. This practice can now be found across the globe as more and more people feel the need to unplug, slow down, and immerse themselves in nature.
Besides fostering a greater appreciation for nature, forest bathing can improve our mental and physical health. Studies have shown that time spent in nature can reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure and heart rate, brighten our moods, boost immunity, and improve cognitive function. To learn more about the research that shows the many benefits of forest therapy, visit the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy website.
Forest Bathing Walks
Take 2 hours to unplug, unwind, and discover forest bathing on the rolling grounds at Whittemore CCC amid the trees and along the soothing Rockaway Creek. This experience is a slow, mindful walk with several open-ended invitations led by a certified Forest Therapy guide that invites participants to use all of their senses to connect with the natural world uniquely. The walk will conclude with a tea ceremony and light snacks.
Take 2 hours to unplug, unwind, and discover forest bathing on the rolling grounds at Whittemore CCC amid the blazing fall foliage and along the soothing Rockaway Creek. This experience is a slow, mindful walk with several open-ended invitations led by a certified Forest Therapy guide that invites participants to use all of their senses to connect with the natural world uniquely. The walk will conclude with a tea ceremony and light snacks.
Take 2 hours for yourself to unplug, relax, and discover forest bathing on the lovely grounds at Whittemore CCC amid spring's beauty. This experience is a slow, mindful walk with several open-ended invitations led by a certified Forest Therapy guide that invites participants to use all of their senses to connect with the natural world. The walk will conclude with a tea ceremony and light snacks.
Take 2 hours for yourself to unplug, relax, and discover forest bathing on the lovely grounds at Whittemore CCC amid the vibrant green foliage. This experience is a slow, mindful walk with several open-ended invitations led by a certified Forest Therapy guide that invites participants to use all of their senses to connect with the natural world. The walk will conclude with a tea ceremony and light snacks.
I have practiced HT for those with Alzheimer’s disease, people with histories of trauma, mental illness, those in a hospice setting, and with those who are homeless or who require intensive rehabilitation in a long-term care program. I have also found HT to be helpful for people with substance use disorders.
Horticultural therapy is a wonderful alternative and complementary therapy that can reach people of all ages.
May Sarton sums up the potential of this return to the earth: “Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace.”
Testimonials
Contact
- Milford, New Jersey, United States
Hello!! Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about forest bathing, horticultural therapy, my walks, or if you would like to plan a custom walk. Also, email me if you would like to be put on my mailing list of future walks. Thank you!