Self-Care Made Simple: Forest Bathing and Nature Therapy

We could all use some self-care these days. Forest bathing and nature therapy is a wellness practice sweeping the globe that’s accessible to everyone. All you have to do is go outside!

The Japanese art of forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, is the restorative practice of immersing oneself in nature, inviting healing for the body and mind. Participants who go forest bathing with a certified nature and forest therapy guide will learn to quiet their minds, awaken their senses, and discover new methods to make the most of every future outdoor experience.

Each session begins with a guided meditation, followed by a slow, gentle walk, then a series of thoughtfully crafted activities that invite participants to experience nature in a new way. The experience culminates in a tea ceremony where everyone has an opportunity to share their observations and experiences.

Participants report feeling a sense of peace and calm, a new perspective about the natural world, and many who are not usually comfortable in nature say they feel safe and inspired with gentle instruction and guidance.
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For those who can’t make it to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina to experience a forest bathing walk in person, we now offer virtual forest bathing live via Zoom. In an effort to make this practice available to everyone, I’ve priced these sessions on a sliding scale. Pay what you can afford, or request a scholarship. Register here and click on Virtual Forest Bathing and Nature Therapy.

About the Author
Kelly Bruce is a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide/Trail Consultant and the founder of Natural Wanders. She leads forest bathing and nature therapy walks in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina. Subscribe to her e-newsletter for more inspiration from nature and to learn about upcoming walks, workshops and retreats. Each Wednesday, she’ll provide inspiration to help you wander into wellness, naturally. In the meantime, follow along on Instagram and Facebook. 
Photography by @zailaffitte.