The Natural Health Society of Australia is partnering with the International Forest Therapy Alliance to bring you a guided Forest Therapy walk at Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens on Saturday, August 20.
Venue: Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens
Time: 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Meeting point: meet for an 11 am start at Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens Visitor Center (located next to the Gift Shop).
Cost: $49
Spaces are limited. Booking is essential, buy your ticket here or call the NHSA office on 0432 396 701.
What is Forest Therapy?
The practice translates literally from Japanese term “Shinrin-yoku” as “Forest Bathing” – immersing ourselves in the atmosphere of the forest. “Forest Therapy” is now considered nature’s remedy to stress and a pathway to a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. The practice is backed by thorough medical and scientific research – and the plethora of health benefits are wide-reaching for all age groups.
What happens during a guided Forest Therapy session?
With a focus on slowing down, the session involves a series of guided place-based activities on easy trails, to help relax, become present and connect with nature through the senses.
The experience invites room for listening, healing and reflection, for quiet and accepting presence and for inquiry through all the senses.
These gardens provide a rich tapestry of sensory experiences that invite us into present moment awareness.
During the guided session, you will spend some time walking slowly, stopping and sitting. Usually, you would be in shade, but sometimes we may sit in an open space.
Your guide is a certified and accredited Forest Therapy guide with INFTA.
Anyone who is interested is welcome to join in an informal lunch afterwards to chat and perhaps share their personal Forest Therapy experience. Lunch venue TBC (Lunch not included in the cost of the ticket).
We look forward to seeing you there!
The NHSA team
THINGS TO KNOW/BRING:
The event will go ahead even in rainy weather. However, if we need to cancel due to inclement weather, bush fires or notifications from council or parks authorities, participants will be notified on the morning by 9:30 am.
Participants should be able to walk at a slow pace, over various terrain. We recommend wearing closed, sturdy shoes.
Carry a day pack and bring water, snacks, and any essential personal medications with you for the walk.
You may like to bring something to sit on while on the walk, eg, a stool, chair, or blanket.
Dress appropriately for the weather. Comfortable pants, layers work best, and a rainproof outer layer if needed. We recommend that you wear a hat.
Phones and cameras should be turned off during the walk.
Please take your rubbish when you leave.
No accompanying small children or pets.
=====BOOKING CONDITIONS======
All rules and regulations currently in existence at the location apply to this Forest Therapy walk. All attendees must comply with the latest NSW Public Health Order and State Government Guidelines at the time of the booking taking place. Activities are undertaken at own risk.
