Forest Bathing, also known as forest therapy (shinrin-yoku), is a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to “forest bathing.” Studies have demonstrated a wide array of health benefits, especially in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and for stabilizing and improving mood and cognition. We build on those benefits and look beyond, to what happens when people remember that we are a part of nature, not separate from it, and are related to all other beings in fundamental ways.
Forest Therapy is a practice. It is open-ended; there is no prescription for what a person “should” experience, or what benefits they “should” receive. Instead, it is a practice of developing a deepening relationship of reciprocity, in which the forest and the practitioner find a way to work together that supports the wholeness and wellness of each. In Forest Therapy, there is a clearly defined sequence of guided events that provides structure to the experience, while embracing the many opportunities for creativity and serendipity offered by the forest and the individual inspiration of each guide. This practice, developed by ANFT has become the most-widely used framework for Forest Therapy in the world.
Forest bathing is as much about connecting with nature as it is about connecting with ourselves.
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“There were many benefits to my time spent getting in touch with my senses and their interaction with the forest. I primarily felt a deep sense of peace and a relaxed state of mind, which remained with me long after the session ended. I also gained some new awareness of the world around me and am eager to develop these skills further. Several experiences from my walk with Duncan have stuck with me as I have begun to integrate the practices into my daily life. I highly recommend spending time with Duncan in the forests of Vermont and I look forward to doing it again!”
“A really lovely experience getting closer to nature, and quieting the inner worlds. Duncan lead the meditation with grace and pure heart. Would definitely recommend giving this a try.
After the walk I was in a state of peace and serenity, feeling relaxed and connected. One of my favorite moments was during our “smell” exercise, gathering different plants and organic materials and sharing in the sensations of the world around us – such beautiful and simple pleasure.
Has my connection to nature or to myself been altered? While maybe not in a significant way from one morning of meditations, the part that this type of work plays in my ongoing process of deepening these connections is clear.”
“We really enjoyed our forest bathing walk with Duncan. He really helped me bring attention to all the senses I forget to activate while walking. I particularly loved bringing my attention to the sounds and smells of the forest. It’s amazing how many things we don’t notice when we just experience the world with our eyes.”
“Thanks Duncan for leading us through this wonderful experience today. I really enjoyed all of the invitations, especially the one where we reconnected to our child-self.”
“What a great group! Duncan did an amazing job – this is much more than just a walk in nature. We did different ‘exercises’ that got us truly connecting with the rocks, plants, trees and waterfalls. We used all of our senses, and there were several times where we could share our observations and thoughts with the group if we chose to… Highly recommend!”
“Had a great time! The autumn colors were beautiful. I hope Duncan does a walk this winter after a fresh snow fall! – that would be awesome!”
“Thank you for sharing this beautiful experience Duncan. You are a mindful facilitator.”
“It was really special today. Thanks Duncan For organizing this! And we learned that cold is only in our mind- a survival instinct”
“The walk was very relaxing and fun! The most beautiful things were the lovely irises and the raccoon (although I nearly freaked out! ha, ha)”
“The process is more important than the destination.”
“Immersive and beautiful sensory experience… Thank you Duncan for bringing us all together to experience all the connections together and individually. Unique walk!”
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