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
Join certified Forest Therapy guide, Linda Kuhn, in the shady, fern-filled Holland Highlands Preserve in Holland Twp, on 200 Andersen Road, for a forest bathing walk on Saturday, August 8 from 9:30-11:30 am. Experience a slow-paced sensory walk in nature where participants are given several prompts to drop into the present and connect with the everyday natural wonders that surround them. There will also be a guided tree meditation. The walk ends with a wild-crafted tea ceremony. This practice offers so many mind and body benefits!
Horseshoe Bend Park Walk -- Join certified Forest Therapy guide, Linda Kuhn, in Horseshoe Bend Park in Kingwood, right outside of Frenchtown, for a shady forest bathing walk on Saturday, June 20 from 9:30-11:30 am. Experience a slow-paced sensory walk in nature where participants are given several prompts to drop into the present and connect with the more than human world that surrounds them. The walk ends with a wild-crafted tea ceremony.
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!