Forest therapy walk in Bohemia Ecological Preserve

Join volunteer docents Emily Wolf McMane, a certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) and Lindsey Dyer, outdoor educator, for a Forest Therapy Hike at Bohemia Ecological Preserve. 

Forest therapy is based on the Japanese practice, shinrin-yoku, which can be translated as "forest bathing” or “taking in the atmosphere of the forest.” A centering and calming restorative practice, it promotes balance and restored vitality through a quality of presence and heightened sensory awareness. It’s a time to slow down and become immersed in the natural environment, connecting with self, connecting with others, and connecting with the more-than-human world. Quickly growing in popularity in the United States and internationally, there is evidence that the practice of forest therapy can help boost immunity, improve overall health, and reduce stress. Give yourself the gift of time in nature and experience the restorative benefits of this healing practice for yourself.

Walks typically last 2.5-3 hours depending on the number of participants. While this walk is not a hike, we will be traversing some rocky and steep terrain, so please prepare for a moderate difficulty level. Participants are welcome to bring a bag lunch. There will be time at the end of the experience to picnic by the creek. These walks are appropriate for adults and older teens. Please find other arrangements for small children and pets.