"Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself." - Hermann Hesse
Feeling stressed out or disconnected? Looking for a simple way to reset? Forest Bathing (known as Shinrin Yoku in Japan) is a restorative way to return to YOU. Don't worry, no actual bathing required - we are immersing ourselves in the healing qualities of the forest in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Scientific research shows that nature is good for us in a multitude of ways. Spending time outdoors soothes our nervous system, brings our heart rate and blood pressure down, lowers the stress hormone cortisol, boosts creativity and feelings of overall wellbeing. During a forest bathing experience with a certified nature and forest therapy guide, you'll experience a series of invitations that bring us into the present moment, awaken our senses, and quiet our weary minds. At the end, we'll celebrate with a tea ceremony featuring an infusion of locally foraged plants. You'll leave with a practice that you can drop into whenever you need to recenter. Join us for a gentle wander in the woods... you might just find yourself. |
Featured Events
Community Forest Bathing Retreats
Celebrate the arrival of summer and the ephemeral beauty of flowers with an immersive morning retreat. In Japan, the birthplace of forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku), they celebrate the blooming of the cherry blossoms (Sakura) with a practice known as Hanami, which translates to “contemplate the flowers.” This experience invites us to cultivate our attention and awareness, while noticing the evanescent nature of flowers. Your guide, Kelly Bruce, will lead you on a colorful journey through the blossoming forest, weaving mindfulness, breathwork, forest bathing and nature therapy together. We’ll celebrate with a wild-foraged tea ceremony and snacks. Bring an open mind and an open heart. All are welcome. 10am June 8 at Conserving Carolina's Transfiguration Preserve, Bat Cave, NC 10am June 29 at the North Carolina Arboretum, Asheville, NC (Arboretum members: register here for a 10% discount) |
Full Moon Forest Bathing Retreat
Sink deeply into the magic of twilight and experience the wonders of nighttime in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy an evening retreat along the French Broad River filled with intentional nature connection as the sun sets and the Full Sturgeon Moon rises. We'll heighten our awareness and attention to the concept of abundance, celebrating the remaining days of summer. Quiet your mind and awaken your senses while deepening your connection to nature, community and Self. Experience golden hour and the beauty of dusk like never before during this guided nature immersion weaving together the Japanese practice of forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku), nature therapy, mindfulness and breathwork. No bathing required - we are immersing ourselves in the healing qualities of nature. We'll end with a tea ceremony and snacks. This gentle and restorative experience is suitable for most ages and activity levels. This event takes place at Olivette Riverside Community in Asheville on Sunday, Aug. 18 at 7:15 p.m. Learn more and register on the Asheville Wellness Tours website. |