What is Forest Therapy?

Forest Therapy emerged as a response to the growing prevalence of stress-related illnesses. Research has shown that immersing oneself in a forest environment can significantly lower stress hormones, reduce blood pressure, and enhance immune function. Unlike traditional hiking or exercising outdoors, Forest Therapy is a structured, guided experience that emphasizes mindfulness practices, relaxation, and sensory awareness, prioritizing mental well-being over physical exertion, thereby contributing to overall nature-based wellness.

Unlike an interpretive nature walk, the guide’s role is not to explain the flora and fauna but to facilitate a contemplative experience through mindfulness practices. As a Certified Forest Therapy Guide, we provide gentle invitations that encourage participants to engage deeply with the forest, enhancing their nature-based wellness. These experiences are interactive, offering opportunities for both personal reflection and group sharing. Many participants find that hearing others’ perspectives enriches their own experience, allowing them to notice things they may not have observed on their own.

Private one-on-one sessions or group sessions are available, each designed as a slow, immersive journey into nature-based wellness. You’ll be guided through mindfulness practices that include gentle, mindful invitations to engage with your surroundings, encouraging reflection and deep relaxation. Sessions may include: Sensory Awareness Exercises – Engaging all five senses to heighten presence, Guided Breathing – Grounding techniques to promote calm, Silent Contemplation – Time for personal reflection and connection, Gentle Movement & Nature Connection Activities – Enhancing awareness of the environment, Sharing Circle – An opportunity, if you choose to share insights and experiences with the group or, if attending solo, with your guide, and Tea & Light Snacks – A moment to conclude the experience with warmth and reflection.

Numerous studies have shown that spending time in forests, as part of nature-based wellness approaches, offers significant benefits: 

  Reduces Cortisol (Stress Hormone) Levels: Prolonged stress can lead to anxiety, burnout, and physical health issues. Engaging in forest therapy helps regulate cortisol, promoting relaxation and mindfulness practices.

  Lowers Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Time in nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to lower physiological markers of stress.

  Improves Mood and Reduces Anxiety: Forest environments boost serotonin and dopamine levels, neurotransmitters associated with happiness and emotional stability.

  Boosts the Immune System: Phytoncides—natural compounds released by trees—enhance the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, assisting the body in fighting off infections and disease.

  Enhances Focus and Mental Clarity: Regular exposure to nature has been linked to improved cognitive function and creativity.

Forest Therapy is ideal for anyone seeking to reduce stress and enhance well-being through nature-based wellness. It is especially beneficial for:  Busy professionals managing work-related stress and burnout, individuals experiencing anxiety or mild depression, those seeking improved sleep, focus, and overall mental clarity, and individuals wishing to reconnect with nature in a structured, supportive atmosphere. Additionally, it can help those with high blood pressure who want to improve both their physical and mental health through mindfulness practices.

Whether you are new to nature-based wellness or seeking evidence-based mindfulness practices to manage stress, Internal Reign Nature Therapy offers guided Forest Therapy experiences in Maple Ridge, BC, and the surrounding natural areas. Our sessions cater to individuals, small groups, and corporate retreats. Enjoy a 2-hour guided Forest Therapy session for just $50.00 per person, or join one of our scheduled group sessions for $20.00 per person, with a maximum of 16 participants in each group. Corporate and group rates are available as well. For inquiries, contact us at info@internalreign.ca or call 604-992-1540. We also offer virtual online private sessions, allowing you to engage in nature-based wellness from any location you choose. Whether you prefer the serenity of a local park, the calming waves of a beach, the tranquility of green spaces, or the comfort of your own yard or deck, our virtual Forest Therapy can be tailored to your needs.