At the minimum, I had hoped for a lovely day among the shady apple trees, next to the pond and tiny bubbling stream–even out on the hot July grass. As we slowly moved past water lilies and the nodding raspberry bushes, then shared in a circle later, the morning expanded into an even larger and more important experience for everyone, far beyond what I had hoped for.
This is some of what the participants shared after my first forest therapy walk in July:
[I have] become more aware of the small and large beauty around us, and the greater possibility and actuality of greater PEACE.
You would only be helping yourself [to do a walk]; you have to disconnect to reconnect.
Wonderful for helping you take yourself to another level of mindfulness…
I am calmer. Slowed down. More peaceful.
Won’t you join me on Sunday August 21 from 10 am to 1 pm in Troy on the next walk?
It’s FREE. (More information below and in the pdf flyer.)
****Use the Contact Us tab above to register for the event.*****
NATURE & FOREST THERAPY WALK
SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2016, 10 AM TO 1 PM
at a six acre private residence in Troy NY
Led by Diane Kavanaugh-Black: Forest Therapy Guide, yoga instructor, local writer & photographer
This introductory walk is FREE, though donations will be happily accepted.
**Forest Therapy is a series of guided sensory invitations into a deeper connection with nature, that takes place in state parks, nature preserves, arboretums, gardens and private spaces. Light hearted and yet potentially profound, the approach slows us down and opens us to possibilities.
**Forest Therapy allows individuals and groups to experience the healing effects of the outdoors and is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or physical condition. The walks are generally under a mile and on easy terrain. No special knowledge or background is needed.
**Nature and Forest Therapy is a research-based restorative practice which comes out of Japanese shinrin yoku or “forest bathing.” Among other benefits, it has been shown to lower blood pressure, decrease cortisol (stress hormone) levels, and increase immune function. You may have seen recent articles in the Washington Post, Yoga Journal, USA Today or U.S. News & World Report, or on National Geographic Explorer channel.
**Further information and links to scientific research and media reports about Forest Therapy can be found at the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs .
Of-the-Essence Holistic Wellness 