Tag: mental

Forest Therapy

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Sent on behalf of Blake Ellis (Ecotherapy Program Manager) and Josh Trout (Kinesiology Professor)

Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or “Forest Bathing.” Forest Therapy is a simple, guided, immersive experience in a natural environment to promote the well-being of both people and the land. Forest Therapy is an opportunity to slow down and experience the natural world through your senses.  During your guided immersion, a certified guide will offer a series of invitations to deepen your sensory experience and assist you in finding your own authentic way of interacting with the land. There’s no right or wrong way to do it; just come and be yourself. It’s all welcome in the forest. Forest Therapy experiences finish up with tea made from wild-foraged forest herbs and snacks.

Proven health benefits include:  

  • Reduction in cortisol and adrenaline levels. 
  • Enhanced immune system function by increasing the production of natural killer cells. 
  • Improved respiratory and cardiovascular function. 
  • Decreased anxiety and depression. 
  • Improved mood, focus, academic performance, and creativity. 

We hope you can join us and experience valuable tools for mental, emotional, and physical health and well-being!  

Click on the dates linked below to sign up for a guided Forest Therapy experience.

  • On Campus – wheelchair accessible
  • Off Campus
    • Saturdays from 9:30-10:45 a.m. (April 2nd and April 16th)
      • Feel Better, Feel Good, Feel Wonderful: Forest Therapy for Individuals Facing Severe Illnesses & Their Families at Cedar Grove Trail with Emiliano – wheelchair accessible.
    • Sunday, April 3rd 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. : Forest Therapy at the Butte Creek Ecological Preserve with Liz.
    • Sunday, Apr 10th 1:30-4:00 p.m. : Paradise Lake with Dan. 
    • Thursday, April 14th 7:00-9:00 p.m. : Full Moon Forest Bathing at the Butte Creek Ecological Preserve with Dan.
    • Sunday, April 24th 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. : Forest Therapy at Cedar Grove Trail with Josh – wheelchair accessible.
    • Saturday, May 7th 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Forest Therapy at the Butte Creek Ecological Preserve with Liz.
    • Saturday, May 13th 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. : Full Moon Forest Bathing at the Butte Creek Ecological Preserve with Josh.