Join us for a transformational walk. Nature and Forest Therapy is a different kind of immersion in nature than you may have experienced in the past – it is not a fitness hike, it is not a naturalist-led point-and-name tour, nor is it psychotherapy in a natural setting – instead, it is a series of guided invitations that will awaken your senses, encourage you to take in nature at a much slower pace than you’re probably accustomed to, and enliven a more conscious connection with the inherent healing properties of nature.
We will be together for a few hours, mostly silent, giving one another space, and will cover just about a mile and half over generally flat surfaces. We encourage you consider going without your mobile cellular devices for the duration – but this is not required and is solely dependent on your comfort level. Throughout the walk, we will be providing multiple “invitations.” These invitations are just that – they are not assignments nor exercises – there is no “right way” to do them, there are no gold stars. However you personally respond to the invitations is exactly how the invitations should be received. If you’re uncomfortable with a specific invitation, feel free to modify it in a way that works for you. At the end of each invitation exploration, we’ll gather and share a few words. It’s okay if you’d like to pass on sharing – sharing is always optional.
Additional considerations:
- The Welcome Letter all participants receive after registering for a walk will confirm the full walk details with date, time, location, meeting place, what to bring, and information about on-site amenities such as parking, potable water, and the facilities (or facilitrees in case of remote public restrooms).
- We walk regardless of the weather, except in cases of severe weather (lightning, tornado watch/warning, windchill advisories), so please dress appropriately; if the conditions are chilly, dress far warmer than you think you’ll need, as you will not be able to rely upon body heat generated from quick movement to keep you warm. If you’re lucky, it’ll rain during your scheduled walk – we find it heightens the senses! Above all, your safety is our primary concern, and walks will be canceled and rescheduled in the event of dangerous conditions.
- Our destinations are public places; solitude from other visitors is not expected nor guaranteed.
- Depending on the season, be prepared for possible sun burn, insect bites, allergy conditions, excessive heat, excessive cold, and wet conditions. Where appropriate please bring necessary repellents, weather protection, medications, and plenty of water.
- While we will not be in the remote wilderness, access to drinkable water and restrooms may be limited. Please be prepared to carry enough water to stay hydrated during our time together.
- We encourage you to consider going without your mobile cellular devices for the duration – but this is not required and is solely dependent on your comfort level.