Forest Therapy

Event Dates:

• Full Moon Forest Bathing
  • June 2, 2023 7:30PM-9:30PM 

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

• Includes waiver signature, history & benefits, 15-minute guided Forest Therapy sensory meditation

Forest Therapy is designed to support health and wellness through guided immersions in natural environments to promote the well-being of both people and the land. Inspired by Shinrin-yoku, the Japanese practice of “Forest Bathing,” Forest Therapy has been proven to enhance health, wellness, and happiness.

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. 

Studies from around the world have shown that Forest Therapy can:

• Reduce cortisol and adrenaline levels.
• Enhance immune system function by increasing the production of natural killer cells.
• Improve respiratory and cardiovascular function.
• Decrease anxiety and depression.
• Improve mood, focus, academic performance, and creativity.

Facilitator

Blake Ellis, MSW
Ecotherapy Program Manager
Chico State Enterprises

Resources

• WellCat Counseling Center's Forest Therapy page
• Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) related publications and articles