About
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest Bathing sessions are gentle walks usually lasting about three hours with guided sensory based nature connection activities (referred to as ‘invitations’) to help quiet the mind and restore balance. These walks follow a standard sequence as defined by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. Between invitations, participants gather together and have the opportunity to share their experiences with the group. Forest Bathing walks conclude with tea enjoyed from locally foraged indigenous plants.
Forest bathing is a powerful form of preventative medicine and an incredible catalyst for healing. Health benefits of this practice abound, some of which include boosted immune function, improved respiratory and cardiovascular health, stress reduction, attention restoration, better sleep and a greater sense of relaxation and wellbeing.
Join certified forest therapy guide Natasha Hall on a guided sensorial exploration of nature. Discover exquisite landscapes at your own leisurely pace, letting your senses guide your journey.
Natasha Hall
Certified Forest Therapy Guide
Natasha is a certified Forest Therapy Guide trained by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. She has guided over fifty walks and guides regularly at Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat.
Natasha also enjoys a career as a classical concert violinist and has performed in North America, Europe and Asia, often with the English Chamber Orchestra of which she is a member. Having spent the last decade pursuing her musical career in major cities, Natasha is delighted to be back in the heart of the Kootenays where she grew up, choosing to further explore her love of nature and continue sharing music with others. Natasha found the practice of forest bathing upon her return to Canada and finds it to be a most potent antidote to the high pressure involved in the concertizing lifestyle she loves so much.
“The simple practice of Forest Bathing brings me out of my mind and into my senses. When we experience the senses, we are instantaneously living in the present moment which is the starting place for everything.”
Read more about Natasha Hall Violin here.
Key Benefits of Forest Bathing
Boosted Immune Function
Research has shown that spending time in nature can boost the immune system. Phytoncides, natural oils that are released by trees, have been found to increase the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and diseases.
Reduced Stress Levels
One of the most significant benefits of forest bathing is its ability to reduce stress levels. Spending time in nature has been found to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. In addition, the calming and relaxing environment of the forest can help soothe the mind and reduce anxiety and tension.
Lowered Blood Pressure
Spending time in nature has also been found to lower blood pressure, which can significantly impact cardiovascular health. The forest's calming and relaxing environment can help reduce the body's stress response, leading to a decrease in blood pressure levels.
Improved Sleep
Forest bathing can also improve sleep quality and duration, leading to a more restful and rejuvenating sleep. Spending time in nature can help to regulate circadian rhythms, the body's internal clock that controls sleep and wake cycles.
Improved Mood
Forest bathing has also been shown to improve mood and increase feelings of happiness. Spending time in nature can increase levels of serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone, which can improve mood and promote a sense of well-being.
