Forest therapy is deeply rooted in the Japanese preventative health practice of ‘shinrin-yoku’ (forest bathing) that was developed in the 1980s to combat rising stress-related diseases, driven by increasingly stressful work and life environments. Our fast-paced, often stressful, modern lifestyles mean we rarely spend quality outdoor time in nature, and are virtually always connected to technology. Forest therapy walks provide the perfect remedy; allowing us to be ‘press pause’ on our busy lives and enter the serenity of the forest environment. In doing so, we reap many scientifically-proven physical and mental health benefits, such as reduced pulse and blood pressure, reduced stress levels, reduced blood glucose levels, improved mood and sleep, and increased natural killer (NK) cells that boost the immune system. A guided forest therapy walk is specifically designed to slow you down and relax you. During the walk, you are guided through a series of sensory activities that encourage you to connect with nature through your senses in the present moment. Each walk is 2½-3 hours long and about 1½ to 2 km in length. It is not a strenuous activity and is suitable for adults of all fitness levels. For the most part, we walk slowly and in silence; although there are opportunities to share your experiences with the group. The walks concludes with an informal Japanese-inspired tea ceremony where participants can share their thoughts and ask questions. About me - Dr Carol Martin
I am a scientist by training and a Certified & Accredited Forest Therapy Guide with the International Nature & Forest Therapy Alliance. During the stressful time of doing my PhD, I would often seek out the refuge of a nearby rainforest. Whenever I entered the forest, I felt a distinct positive shift in my well-being. The beautiful, soothing colours and sounds of the forest allowed me to forget about my stressful and busy life - just to be in the present moment, in nature. I am compelled to share this experience with others, knowing it will transform their lives and encourage a greater connection and appreciation of nature.