Forest Bathing

Origin

Forest Bathing is based on the Japanese practice, Shinrin-Yoku, developed by the Japanese Society of Forest Medicine in the early 1980’s.  Since its inception, a large and growing body of scientific research supporting the health benefits of spending time in nature has been published worldwide.  

Description of Experience

A Forest Bathing Experience with Cat is a slow, sensorial saunter, on and off trail, consisting of facilitated "invitations" that create opportunities to: slow down, rejuvenate, connect, and play. In contrast to hiking, forest bathing is less directed, melding mindfulness and nature immersion to improve health through the reconnection of the human psyche with the more than human world. The destination is inner calm, wonder and gratitude. Each walk ends with a sharing of delicious pine needle tea.

In our fast-paced modern culture, a Forest Walk with Cat provides a unique opportunity to:

• Slow down

• Awaken your senses

• Nourish your mind, body and spirit

• Explore your inner and outer landscape

• Discover your innate connection to the natural world

• Learn about local flora and fauna

• Relax

• Play!

Each Walk includes:

• Sense Meditation to facilitate mindful presence

• Slow sauntering on and off trail

• Guidance to safely explore and connect with nature

• Opportunities to receive information about plants and animal sign we encounter

• Sharing of delicious pine needle tea

Health Benefits

There are many scientifically validated health benefits of spending time in nature.  They include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Increased immune function

• Decreased blood pressure

• Decreased stress hormone production

• Decreased anxiety and depression

• Decreased anger/hostility

Please see Resources tab for specific studies