What is Forest Therapy?
It is a science backed wellness practice that enhances mental clarity, has positive effects on physical health, reduces stress, and strengthens your connection with nature. Unlike a hike or an exercise-based activity, this practice encourages deep presence, mindful breathing, and sensory engagement with the natural world. Forest Therapy is also known as Shinrin-Yoku.
Lets dive deeper into it
Originating in Japan in 1982
The Role of a Forest Therapy Guide
The Role of a Forest Therapy Guide
Forest Therapy was developed as a response to rising stress-related illnesses. Scientists discovered that immersing oneself in a forest environment significantly reduces stress hormones, lowers blood pressure, and boosts immune function. Unlike hiking or exercising outdoors, Forest Therapy is a structured, guided experience that focuses
Forest Therapy was developed as a response to rising stress-related illnesses. Scientists discovered that immersing oneself in a forest environment significantly reduces stress hormones, lowers blood pressure, and boosts immune function. Unlike hiking or exercising outdoors, Forest Therapy is a structured, guided experience that focuses on mindfulness, relaxation, and sensory awareness rather than physical exertion.
The Role of a Forest Therapy Guide
The Role of a Forest Therapy Guide
The Role of a Forest Therapy Guide
Unlike an interpretive nature walk, the guide’s role is not to explain the flora and fauna but to facilitate a contemplative experience. As a Certified Forest Therapy Guide, we provide gentle invitations that encourage participants to engage deeply with the forest. These experiences are interactive, offering opportunities for both persona
Unlike an interpretive nature walk, the guide’s role is not to explain the flora and fauna but to facilitate a contemplative experience. As a Certified Forest Therapy Guide, we provide gentle invitations that encourage participants to engage deeply with the forest. These experiences are interactive, offering opportunities for both personal reflection or 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.
What to Expect in Forest Therapy
The Role of a Forest Therapy Guide
The Science Behind Forest Therapy
Private one-one sessions or group sessions are available. Each session is designed to be a slow, immersive journey into nature. You’ll be guided through gentle, mindful invitations to engage with your surroundings, encouraging reflection and deep relaxation. Sessions may include:
- Sensory Awareness Exercises – Engaging all five senses to he
Private one-one sessions or group sessions are available. Each session is designed to be a slow, immersive journey into nature. You’ll be guided through 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
- Tea & Light Snacks – A moment to conclude the experience with warmth and reflection
The Science Behind Forest Therapy
Who Can Benefit from Forest Therapy?
The Science Behind Forest Therapy
Numerous studies have shown that spending time in forests:
- Reduces Cortisol (Stress Hormone) Levels: Prolonged stress can lead to anxiety, burnout, and physical health issues. Forest Therapy helps regulate cortisol and promotes relaxation.
- Lowers Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Time in nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system, red
Numerous studies have shown that spending time in forests:
- Reduces Cortisol (Stress Hormone) Levels: Prolonged stress can lead to anxiety, burnout, and physical health issues. Forest Therapy helps regulate cortisol and promotes relaxation.
- Lowers Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Time in nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing physiological markers of stress.
- Improves Mood and Reduces Anxiety: Forest environments increase levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with happiness and emotional stability.
- Boosts the Immune System: Phytoncides—natural compounds released by trees—have been found to enhance the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which help the body fight off infections and disease.
- Enhances Focus and Mental Clarity: Regular exposure to nature has been linked to improved cognitive function and creativity.
Who Can Benefit from Forest Therapy?
Who Can Benefit from Forest Therapy?
Who Can Benefit from Forest Therapy?
Forest Therapy is for anyone looking to reduce stress and improve well-being. It is particularly beneficial for:
- Busy professionals dealing with work-related stress and burnout.
- Individuals experiencing anxiety or mild depression.
- People seeking better sleep, focus, and overall mental clarity.
- Those looking to reconnect with nature in a struc
Forest Therapy is for anyone looking to reduce stress and improve well-being. It is particularly beneficial for:
- Busy professionals dealing with work-related stress and burnout.
- Individuals experiencing anxiety or mild depression.
- People seeking better sleep, focus, and overall mental clarity.
- Those looking to reconnect with nature in a structured, supportive way.
- Those with high blood pressure and want to improve physical and mental health
Join a Guided Forest Therapy Session
Who Can Benefit from Forest Therapy?
Who Can Benefit from Forest Therapy?
Whether you are new to nature-based wellness or looking for an evidence-based way to manage stress, Internal Reign Nature Therapy offers guided Forest Therapy experiences in Maple Ridge, BC and surrounding natural areas. Sessions are available for individuals, small groups, and corporate retreats.
2 hr. Forest Therapy guided session $50.
Whether you are new to nature-based wellness or looking for an evidence-based way to manage stress, Internal Reign Nature Therapy offers guided Forest Therapy experiences in Maple Ridge, BC and surrounding natural areas. Sessions are available for individuals, small groups, and corporate retreats.
2 hr. Forest Therapy guided session $50.00 per person - Or join our Scheduled group session, $20.00 per person, maximum 16 participants in one group.
Corporate rates available
Group rates available
604-992-1540