The term Forest bathing is a direct adaptation from the Japanese term Shinrin Yoku (森林浴). Walking between the trees, we are ‘bathing’ in the natural compounds floating in the atmosphere. Trees release an active ingredient named phytoncide which has been proven to increase the natural killer cells in the human body which fight infections and support immunity. At the same time, we are bathing in sunlight, fresh oxygen and microbes in the soil that are essential for physical mechanisms of the body.

Forest therapy and nature therapy are other terms used interchangeably for this practice.

There is no destination, no distance to clock, and no educational goals to achieve. We learn how to simply be in our body, and allow our heart to take us on a gentle wander. It provides a great contrast to our usual highly productive daily grind, which can be very restful for most people.

Look forward to an idyllic walk down a gentle trail, where we engage our different senses to interact with nature in novel ways through a series of friendly invitations. For most parts of the walk, we are engaging individually with nature, but we gather in multiple short sharing sessions to connect with the circle. We mark off the end of the walk with a tea-sharing experience.

Most people experience an improvement in mood, mindfulness, and relaxation. It is great for worn-out souls and tired bodies. The tranquil time also provides space for special reconnections to happen, with ourselves, humanity, and the wider circle of nature. We might be walking down the same trail, but each of our journeys will be unique and special to us.

Yes, it is widely studied with numerous researches producing strong evidence that backs the effects of forest bathing on human health. Scientists observe lower blood pressure, reduced stress, mood improvement, increased memory and focus, and an increase in natural killer cells in our bloodstream that fight infected cells and support our immunity. If you are keen to learn more, visit the links on this page.

The trained guide partners with the forest to offer an effective sequence, route and conditions to best receive the therapeutic effects of nature. As forest bathing deeply engages the senses and presence, it may not come naturally to everyone.

The guide will help the participants to slow down, quieten busy thoughts and reconnect with their senses through prompts and invitations. People who experience a disconnect with their body and soul would benefit from being guided deeper into their presence.

With a guide who is well-versed in nature, one can also be assured of their physical and emotional safety to take a step further into their brave space, and ease into the captivating wonders of nature.

Of course, one may choose to take the simple slow walks in nature parks and still derive the physical benefits if that's the main goal. This is completely supported and encouraged.

Forest bathing is an open practice conducted in a secular manner with the intent to deepen our relationship with nature. Participants are free to draw their own meaning according to their personal faith and beliefs and have full autonomy over their own interpretation.

Rain is a friend we welcome in walks as it brings about a unique set of encounters. The program will flow around the weather and be conducted under safe conditions in the absence of lightning.

It makes a walk even more special as it is a surprise encounter that we cannot arrange in advance.

Of course, should there be heavy thunderstorms that may make the walk impossible, we will inform in advance on any cancellation or postponement. Participants may use the same ticket for the next walk.