What is a Nature Wellness Walk?
Nature Wellness Walks are modeled after the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing; a slow, mindful practice of being guided through nature, usually lasting a few hours. Participants experience a sequence of activities that invite them to connect with nature, in combination with the group or individually. Multiple opportunities are provided to access the quieter part of ourselves, where we connect with our internal landscape through our senses.
My experience with Forest Needle Wellness was far beyond what I had expected. Irene’s guidance takes you through an experience of heightened awareness of sounds, smells, vision, and body awareness in the space of nature. The guidance was so perfect. Every word of guidance by Irene is with exceptional intention and then the coming together for tea wraps up the experience. At the end of the event I felt no weight on my shoulders. For the rest of the day I felt like I was floating. It was wonderful. I couldn’t stop telling all my friends and family what a great experience I had with nature. Thank you Irene! I can’t wait for my nature walk with you.
Claudia K.
What are the benefits of a Nature Wellness Walk?
The research around the practice shows that spending time in nature, or “bathing” and breathing in the volatile essential oils of plants in the forest demonstrated various benefits, particularly related to physical, mental, and social/emotional health. Our nervous systems experiences a lot in a given day, over the years this can be taxing on the body and affects the mind and spirit. These walks can support participants in addressing and managing the physical and mental issues related to stress. Research has proven that spending time in nature decreases high blood pressure, improves autoimmune conditions and immunity, as well as improves sleep. The production of “happy hormones” like dopamine and seratonin is also boosted.
What does a Nature Wellness Walk guided experience look like?
Participants experience a series of crafted “invitations,” where attendants are invited to slow down, awaken the senses, and individually cultivate a grateful presence and reciprocal partnership with the land. There is time for stillness, silence, and special interactions with nature on these slow walks. These activities not only help in deepening our relationship with nature, but create a mutual exchange between humans and the more-than-human-world. Nature is like a conduit for staying in balance and when we cultivate a relationship with the earth we return to our roots of healing.
It amazes me how after only a couple of hours in nature, on one of Irene’s Wellness Walks, I feel so much more centered and grounded. I also feel enlivened with this childlike enthusiasm, curiosity and freedom to simply be and have fun.
The experience is all so subtle and profound at the same time. There is magic in nature, waiting to be seen and felt and experienced. And in Irene’s presence and with her guidance, I see it and experience it in a way that I don’t in other scenarios. I have been in nature by myself, with friends and in hiking groups, but there is something about the safe and sacred space Irene manages to create in such a subtle but profound way that allows my body and mind to rest. Where there is no expectation or requirement. Simply an opportunity to be present and allow, through prompts, through the sharings of others in the group and through whatever it is that nature desires to share with me that day.
Nicole H.
How is a Nature Wellness Walk different from taking a hike on my own?
Wellness Walks help one cultivate intentionality, this practice of being guided on a slow wander, in a leisurely, relaxed manner by a guide helps us engage in a sensory connection. This facilitates the connection with nature to help heal the physical and mental aspects of ourselves. This type of intentional engagement during structured activities are referred to as ” invitations.” The guide offers invitations that helps us connect with our inner landscape while feeling supported. The connection with the forest, as well as those experiencing the invitation, creates an alchemy that supports well being and a sense of community.
Private Nature Wellness Walks
Book a private Wellness Walk for yourself, a gift for a loved one or book as group for a milestone occasion, like birthdays, family reunions and anniversaries. What better way to build memories with friends or loved ones than to share community in and amongst nature. A beautiful way to promote team building for corporate functions and retreats. Walks can be scheduled in multiple locations and durations, our local forest and trails or beaches are a special way for you and/or a group to spend the morning, evening or entire day healing with nature’s gifts.
