What is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing is the practice of slowing down, tuning in, and allowing the natural world to soothe the nervous system, slow your body down and restore your soul. It was formally introduced in Japan in 1982 by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries as a public health and nature-connection initiative. Shinrin-yoku is designed to reduce stress and burnout thanks to the grounding benefits of nature, particularly the forest. We practice in the Kuitpo Forest, in Meadows, South Australia. The essence of this art is not about hiking, exercising or swimming. It is all about presence, being in the present moment. In my forest bathing workshops, we move slowly, pause often, and notice what’s happening around and within us, with our senses. We lean into quiet curiosity: touching bark, taking deep breaths, listening to birdsong and the wind dancing in the trees. You are guided into sensory invitations: smell, sight, touch, sound, breath, and emotional reconnection. Expect slowness, simplicity, contemplation and silence. Expect gentleness and maybe also surprising emotions, because nature mirrors what lies within. Expect to leave grounded, softer, feeling more alive.
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Reduces stress and helps calm the nervous system
Supports emotional regulation and expression
Encourages presence and mindful awareness
Restores focus, attention and mental clarity
Deepens your connection to nature, the ecosystem and self
Creates space for emotional release and processing
Supports overall physical wellbeing
Invites relaxation through slow, gentle movement
Grounds the body
Quiets the mind
Nourish the soul
Leaves you feeling more centred, open, and restored
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Forest Bathing in Kuitpo Forest (Shinrin-Yoku) | Sacred Forest Immersion
Forest bathing is the sensory and somatic practice of contemplation, tuning in, and allowing the natural world to soothe the nervous system, slow your body down and return to your soul. It is experiencing your birthright to connect with the natural world.Sacred Forest Immersion is a slow, guided and soulful ritual in nature. Here is a list of practices we do together:
Mindfulness in nature
such as guided Earth-led meditation, journaling, group share, poetry
Respecting wildlife and honouring the land through slowness and gentle walks
Practising the art of noticing, forest contemplation, being here
Barefoot practice (preferably)
Slow walks
Land art (creating mandalas and art with natural elements).
Forest bathing isn’t a hike, a workout, a performance, or a rush to get somewhere. We also do not swim. It’s not about distance, achievement, or getting wet. Shinrin Yoku is about slowing down, softening, and simply being present with nature.
Forest bathing and ecotherapy are forms of mindfulness in nature.
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Come as you are with an open heart and a willingness to explore yourself in nature.
To support your comfort and presence during the session, please bring:
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and the weather conditions
Closed-toe walking shoes with a good grip (we will then most likely walk barefoot in the forest)
Water to stay hydrated
A hat, sunscreen, and/or rain protection, depending on the forecast
Blankets, yoga mat, pillows to sit on, eye masks
Any personal medication you may need (e.g. inhaler, antihistamines, first aid kit, etc.)
A backpack/bag to carry your belongings
A journal or notebook to reflect during or after the session
Sensory support:
You are welcome to bring any sensory items that help you feel grounded or comfortable in nature, such as a scarf, stone, essential oil, fidget object, headphones, colouring book, or anything you need to support your nervous system and sense of ease.Please note that we will be moving slowly and spending time sitting, mindfully walking or pausing in nature, so layering is recommended.
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Most of my offerings are not a hike, but we will be walking slowly and spending time outdoors.
Expect uneven ground, natural surfaces, and moments of stillness.We usually walk 500 meters to 1 kilometre.
You don’t need any experience.
This is about you: your needs, your pace, your abilities.
If you have limited mobility or use a wheelchair, please email me before booking so we can explore how to best support your experience in the forest. We can always work together to make my offerings accessible and inclusive to your needs and abilities.
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Forest bathing sessions are intentionally slow, quiet, and reflective, and are generally best suited for adults.
Children naturally know how to reconnect with nature and explore the world with curiosity. Children and breastfeeding mothers are welcome; however, I kindly ask that you email me prior to booking so we can discuss suitability and ensure the experience will be supportive for you and the group.
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Dogs are welcome in Kuitpo Forest in line with ForestrySA guidelines, where they must be kept on a lead and under effective control at all times in designated areas.
However, forest bathing sessions are held in locations and formats that require a calm, quiet, and focused environment. For this reason, dogs might not suitable to attend this kind of group sessions.
Assistance dogs are warmly welcome. Please contact me prior to booking so we can ensure the location and session are suitable and supportive for your needs, in line with ForestrySA requirements.
