Forest Bathing Experience with Emelia Sautter (online)

Join us for this free interactive program!

Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide Emelia Sautter will accompany you on a walk with the natural world at the location of your choice in this free online program from The Plant Initiative! You will also come away from the program having learned how to do forest bathing on your own.

Experience Nature and Forest Therapy, also known as Forest Bathing, a sensory-focused practice that invites us to slow down and be present with self and the natural world around us. According to the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, “Forest Therapy is a practice that supports health and wellness through guided immersion in forests and other environments to promote the well-being of both people and the land. It is inspired by shinrin yoku, the Japanese practice of ‘Forest Bathing.’”

Much research has been done on the healing and therapeutic benefits of Forest Therapy. Hundreds of clinical and non-clinical studies show numerous positive effects, including reductions in stress, anxiety, depression, mental fatigue, anger and pain. Improvements include better cognitive functioning, sleep, mood, confidence and creativity. Time with our nature kin also boosts our immune system, regulates blood pressure, improves relationships, increases feelings of gratitude and much more!

This online program will allow participants to be guided through a personal forest bathing experience in the natural location of their choice through their cell phones using Zoom. It will be necessary for participants to have access to adequate cell service.

While we recommend that participants will be outside in a natural area, it is possible to also join the program indoors by looking out a window, connecting with house plants, or even using your imagination.

The program will start with a brief introduction to forest bathing, so it is important for attendees to join right at the beginning. Then the program will consist of a series of forest bathing activities that will be conducted for participants with ongoing guidance by Emelia. The program will wrap up with an opportunity for participants to share their experiences with others.

Please note that since this is an experiential program, it will not be recorded. We hope that those who register will plan to attend the program live.

(Note to attendees: Please be sure that your cell phones are fully charged and bring a back-up charger if you have one. Plan to be at your nature location at the start of the event and be ready to connect via Zoom at that time! Please also bring a blanket, yoga mat, or something to sit on, since you will be invited to sit and lay down on the Earth during this event​.)