Certified Nature Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy
After every storm comes a rainbow.....
Offering in person Forest Bathing Experiences!
About Forest Bathing and Wandering Muskoka
What is Nature Therapy or Forest Bathing......
Forest or Nature Therapy, also known as "Shinrin-Yoku," refers to the practice of spending time in forested areas for the purpose of enhancing health, wellness, and happiness. The practice follows the general principle that it is beneficial to spend time bathing in the atmosphere of the forest. The Japanese words translate into English as “Forest Bathing.” Although we are inspired by the Japanese practice, our use of the terms Forest Therapy and Shinrin-Yoku do not mean a specifically Japanese practice. We mean spending time in nature in a way that invites healing interactions. There is a long tradition of this in cultures throughout the world. It’s not just about healing people; it includes healing for the forest (or river, or desert, or whatever environment you are in).
There are an infinite number of healing activities that can be incorporated into a walk in a forest or any other natural area. An activity is likely to be healing when it makes room for listening, for quiet and accepting presence, and for inquiry through all eight of the sensory modes we possess.
Is there a fitness requirement...........
Forest therapy does not engage in activities that require a great deal of physical exertion. Part of the appeal of Shinrin-Yoku-inspired forest therapy is that it is highly accessible to people with a wide range of fitness abilities and conditions. The practice can also be adapted to fit a variety of different groups. Let me know your needs!
Join Me On The Trail
"The Forest Is the Therapist, the Guide Opens the Door"
Laurie landed in Huntsville at the age of 14 spending most of her adolescent and adult years in Muskoka. She has spent her career as a counsellor and public educator in a local social service agency. She has had a special connection with nature having spent endless hours with the lakes and forests and in the beauty that is Muskoka.
She has recently completed an intensive practicum with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides to become a Certified Nature Therapy Guide. She is trained in Wilderness First Aid and Local Foraging.
She brings a calm and gentle approach to sharing this practice that she is so passionate about.
What Will I Need?
What Should I Bring
Making sure you have what you need can enhance your experience of forest bathing......here are some suggestions......
- Comfortable footwear for the terrain And the weather. Usually, unless a more vigorous walk is planned or the weather is wet/snowy, hiking sandals or Running shoes will be adequate.
- Water - especially during warmer months.
- Gloves, hats, scarf, warm waterproof coats and pants if the weather is wet.
- Insect repellent.
- Sunscreen.
- Sit upon - small hiking stool, old piece of camping or yoga mats - we will usually be sitting at one point and time during the experience. If you don’t have one let me know - I have extras!
- I provide a light snack and tea during our tea ceremony.
- An open mind!
Photo Gallery
Testimonials
The forest is the therapist................
"I felt completely different after the walk - much more calm and relaxed"
"Thank you thank you thank you! I would recommend this experience to anyone!"
"Laurie brings a calm to the practice - she is a natural guide"
"I have always spent time in nature but this was much much more - an experience that is a first for me!"