THE FOREST
THERAPY GUIDE
What is the
Forest Therapy Guide's Role?
The role of the forest bathing guide is to help facilitate participants’ re-connection with the forest and with nature, respecting that each individual will be called to the forest in their own way. We do this by developing a flow that:
-Welcomes individuals to immerse, connect, and reflect
-Facilitates connection through meditation, mindfulness, and gratitude practices
-Incorporates invitations, not directions, utilizing our different senses to connect with nature
A guide is not a mental health therapist or a teacher, but rather draws upon their own connection to nature and mindfulness practice to help individuals discover and cultivate their own meaningful relationship with the forest.
Whether with a guide or engaging in forest bathing on your own, having a regular practice of connecting with nature has been shown to have a positive impact on our health and wellbeing. While practicing on our own, we may sometimes find it difficult to slow down, let go of distractions, and calm our busy minds. Participating in a forest bathing experience with a guide can help participants by providing a structure or flow that reduces distractions and allows for a more mindful forest bathing experience.
Combining a practice with a guide and practicing on our own simply enhances and deepens our relationship with the natural world.