Forest Therapy walks are about slowing down and taking time to just ‘be.’ Walks are 2-2.5 hours total and can be tailored to participants of all skill levels and physical abilities. No special gear is required to come on a walk – just an open mind, comfortable clothing, and water to stay hydrated.
This particular tradition of Forest Therapy, which I learned through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, was inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku, or Forest Bathing. It turns out that there are tangible benefits to walking in a forest, including the restorative effects of Phytoncides, which are emitted by the trees all around us. By spending just a couple of hours in these environments, studies have shown we can reduce our cortisol levels, i.e. stress, which has positive impacts on our bodies as well as our minds.
We don’t get into details on the specific types of plants or animals that are present, yet we do acknowledge the various beings that inhabit what we refer to as the More-Than-Human-World. There’s no right or wrong way to engage in Forest Therapy and you won’t get quizzed or graded on your experience. It’s totally up to you what you get out of a walk.
Walk Locations:
- Cascade Springs Nature Preserve – Atlanta, Ga.
- Frazer Forest – Atlanta, Ga.
- Emery Creek – Chatsworth, Ga.
- Just Love Forest – Poetry, Ga.
- Sweetwater Creek State Park – Lithia Springs, Ga.
Upcoming Walks:
- Contact me to schedule a walk for your group.
What to Expect on Your Forest Therapy Walk:
A Forest Therapy walk is not a traditional hike, nor is it a botanical tour. It is a slow, sensory experience designed to help you step out of your head and into the present moment. Some frequently asked questions:
Some walk locations, like Sweetwater Creek and Just Love Forest have facilities near the trailhead. I always recommend a ‘pit stop’ before we head into the trees, as we won’t pass a restroom during the 2–2.5 hour walk.
I am a certified Forest Therapy Guide, not a mental health professional. The ANFT philosophy is that ‘The forest is the therapist; the guide opens the door.’ I facilitate the experience, but the healing comes from your own connection with nature.
While I love our furry friends, these walks are designed for deep quiet and sensory focus, so we ask that you leave pets at home. Children are welcome to participate if they are comfortable with long periods of silence and slow movement.
I encourage a ‘digital detox’ to help you fully immerse your senses. If you’d like to take a photo at the very end, that’s great, but I usually ask everyone to keep phones on silent and tucked away during the walk itself.
Sharing is always optional. After each ‘invitation,’ we gather to share what we are noticing, but ‘passing’ is perfectly okay. This is your experience.
While there is no specific needed gear for walks, participants are encouraged to bring some water to stay hydrated and perhaps a jacket in cooler weather.
Walks are typically between 2 and 2.5 hours long in total. It’s a good idea to plan for this timeframe so you can get the complete experience.
Most pre-scheduled group walks are $45 per person. Special pricing is available for solo walks and corporate team activities. Reduced rates are available for those with a financial hardship. Please don’t let money get in the way of participating!
There’s no special preparation required, but I do encourage you to show up well hydrated with enough energy to be outside for 2-2.5 hours.
While Forest Therapy Walks often occur on or near hiking trails, the process is much slower and less strenuous, with no specific destination in mind. Participants are encouraged to experience the forest at their own pace through a series of invitations that offer a way to engage with their surroundings and notice what is all around.
We typically walk rain or shine! Some of the most powerful sensory experiences happen in light rain. However, if there is extreme weather (lightning or high winds), we will reschedule for safety.
If you have any concerns about your ability to safely participate, please discuss with me in advance. While Forest Therapy Walks are designed to be accessible to most folks, each person must decide for themselves whether they are able to participate in a way that feels ok for them.
While I encourage everyone who participates to complete the entire experience, sometimes things come up and folks have to leave early. If this happens, please just let me know before you go so I don’t go searching for you.
