May
4
to May 7
Sep
12
to Dec 5
Forest Bathing: Botanic Park Pack
Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. - Rachel Carson
Forest bathing (or nature therapy) combines the benefits of embodied practices with mindfulness, and the benefits of psychology and social connection - all in a natural setting. It is an evidence-based practice of immersing ourselves in a natural environment, for the widespread health benefits it brings.
With a focus on slowing down and awakening the senses, this restorative practice involves a series of guided invitations to help relax, slow down, become present and make contact with nature. The experience invites room for listening, healing and reflection, for quiet and accepting presence, and for inquiry through all the senses, in a non-judgmental setting.
Simply being out in nature provides a healing, grounded and connective experience. The practice of forest bathing fosters a deeper more intentional connection with nature and ourselves.
Join me in this series of discovering - or rediscovering in a new way - some of the beautiful botanic parks and gardens in the Adelaide region. All near cafes and other attractions to encourage you to make a day of it.
A qualified guide combines all these elements and ensures the experience is safe, supported and inspiring. Each experience lasts 2.5 - 3 hours but we not go more than a kilometre. It is very low impact, not strenuous hiking. This event is suitable for people aged 16 and over.
If you are overwhelmed by the noise and 'busyness' of modern life, then come along to destress, relax, restore and reconnect.
This practice is also known as shinrin yoku, or forest or nature therapy.
Nature is the therapist. Guides help to open the doors.
Benefits
Research shows that there are many important benefits from experiencing nature, whether incidental or intentional, for mental, physical and social health – our general wellbeing. Benefits include: boosting the immune system, improving mood, decreasing blood pressure, inflammation and blood sugar, restoring attention, reducing headaches, reducing stress, anxiety and fatigue, which contribute to improved sleep and much more.
Like other restorative practices, the benefits of this practice are enhanced and deepened through regular practice.
About me
My name is Jana Norman. I’m a resident of the Adelaide Hills and a certified 'Forest Therapy Guide' with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs.
I am a university-based researcher with an interest in the human-earth relationship, both at law and in the arts and humanities. My background is in community development, and I have a PhD in law with a focus on Earth Jurisprudence, which is legal eco-philosophy. I am a certified permaculture designer and mindfulness trainer and have completed first aid training.
With my other colleagues in the Nature & Wellbeing Australia Collective, I believe that nature connection is a positive pathway to wellbeing for both people and planet.
Cost
I provide these sessions at a cost that covers some of my expenses but hopefully isn’t too dear for people to think about giving it a try or even committing to a regular schedule of sessions for a more consistent nature connection experience. The cost per session is $15.
FAQs
What if the weather is too hot/cold/wet?
It is important to be comfortable during these experiences, so sessions will be cancelled via email if the temperature is forecast to be 30°C or above on the day before the event, or if the weather forecast is too severe in any other way. An email confirmation will be sent the day before to confirm whether or not the event will go ahead.
What are the transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?
All three of the walks in the Botanic Park Pack are accessible by public transport.
There is parking available at all three locations (parking is free at Wittunga).
What do I bring to the event?
Weather appropriate clothing and shoes. I recommend closed shoes because the surfaces vary but if you prefer open shoes, feel free.
Sun smart gear.
Water.
How can I contact the organiser with any questions?
Please contact Jana via email: naturewellbeingaus@gmail.com
What dates are available?
I will be running these sessions one Sunday a month, between 12 September and 5 December 2021: pick one park, or enjoy all three! Register here.
12 September 2021 * 10 am at Adelaide Botanic Park (in the City)
31 October 2021 * 10 am at Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens (Crafers/Mt Lofty)
POSTPONED 5 December 2021 * 10 am at Wittunga Botanic Gardens (Blackwood)
May
30
to Aug 1
Forest Bathing: Hills Hidden Gems
Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life. - Rachel Carson
Forest bathing (or nature therapy) combines the benefits of embodied practices with mindfulness, and the benefits of psychology and social connection - all in a natural setting. It is an evidence-based practice of immersing ourselves in a natural environment, for the widespread health benefits it brings.
With a focus on slowing down and awakening the senses, this restorative practice involves a series of guided invitations to help relax, slow down, become present and make contact with nature. The experience invites room for listening, healing and reflection, for quiet and accepting presence, and for inquiry through all the senses, in a non-judgmental setting.
Simply being out in nature provides a healing, grounded and connective experience. The practice of forest bathing fosters a deeper more intentional connection with nature and ourselves.
A qualified guide combines all these elements and ensures the experience is safe, supported and inspiring. Each experience lasts 2.5 - 3 hours but we not go more than a kilometre. It is very low impact, not strenuous hiking. This event is suitable for people aged 16 and over.
Come to the Adelaide Hills for one, two or all three of the forest bathing experiences in this series. Each experience is set in a different “hidden gem” or small pocket park tucked away in the hills (and in easy reach of a range of lovely cafes and wineries that will encourage you to make a day of it).
If you are overwhelmed by the noise and 'busyness' of modern life, then come along to destress, relax, restore and reconnect.
This practice is also known as shinrin yoku, or forest or nature therapy.
Nature is the therapist. Guides help to open the doors.
Benefits
Research shows that there are many important benefits from experiencing nature, whether incidental or intentional, for mental, physical and social health – our general wellbeing. Benefits include: boosting the immune system, improving mood, decreasing blood pressure, inflammation and blood sugar, restoring attention, reducing headaches, reducing stress, anxiety and fatigue, which contribute to improved sleep and much more.
Like other restorative practices, the benefits of this practice are enhanced and deepened through regular practice.
About me
My name is Jana Norman. I’m a resident of the Adelaide Hills and a certified 'Forest Therapy Guide' with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs.
I am a university-based researcher with an interest in the human-earth relationship, both at law and in the arts and humanities. My background is in community development, and I have a PhD in law with a focus on Earth Jurisprudence, which is legal eco-philosophy. I am a certified permaculture designer and mindfulness trainer and have completed first aid training.
With my other colleagues in the Nature & Wellbeing Australia Collective, I believe that nature connection is a positive pathway to wellbeing for both people and planet.
Cost
I provide these sessions at a cost that covers some of my expenses but hopefully isn’t too dear for people to think about giving it a try or even committing to a regular schedule of sessions for a more consistent nature connection experience. The cost per session is $15.
FAQs
What if the weather is too hot/cold/wet?
It is important to be comfortable during these experiences, so sessions will be cancelled via email if the temperature is forecast to be 30°C or above on the day before the event, or if the weather forecast is too severe in any other way. An email confirmation will be sent the day before to confirm whether or not the event will go ahead.
What are the transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?
Two out of the three walks in the Hills Hidden Gems series are accessible by public transport: Blackwood Forest and Woorabinda in Stirling. The walk near Scott Creek Conservation park is not.
There is free parking available at all three locations.
What do I bring to the event?
Weather appropriate clothing and shoes. I recommend closed shoes because the paths are quite gravelly but if you prefer open shoes, feel free.
Sun smart gear.
Water.
How can I contact the organiser with any questions?
Please contact Jana via email: naturewellbeingaus@gmail.com
What dates are available?
I will be running three sessions in this series. Please follow this link for bookings.
30 May 2021 Blackwood Forest 10 am
4 July 2021 (near) Scott Creek Conservation Park 10 am
1 August 2021 Woorabinda Bushland Reserve 10 am
Apr
18
to Nov 21
Forest Bathing at Belair
‘When we remove ourselves from the busyness, slow down and tune into the natural environment answers emerge.’ Liza Pullman
Forest bathing (or nature therapy) combines the benefits of embodied practices with mindfulness, and the benefits of psychology and social connection - all in a natural setting. It is an evidence-based practice of immersing ourselves in a natural environment, for the widespread health benefits it brings.
With a focus on slowing down and awakening the senses, this restorative practice involves a series of guided invitations to help relax, slow down, become present and make contact with nature. The experience invites room for listening, healing and reflection, for quiet and accepting presence, and for inquiry through all the senses, in a non-judgmental setting.
Simply being out in nature provides a healing, grounded and connective experience. The practice of forest bathing fosters a deeper more intentional connection with nature and ourselves.
A qualified guide combines all these elements and ensures the experience is safe, supported and inspiring. Each experience lasts 2.5 - 3 hours but we not go more than a kilometre. It is very low impact, not strenuous hiking. This event is suitable for people aged 16 and over.
If you are overwhelmed by the noise and 'busyness' of modern life, then come along to destress, relax, restore and reconnect.
This practice is also known as shinrin yoku, or forest or nature therapy.
Nature is the therapist. Guides help to open the doors.
Benefits
Research shows that there are many important benefits from experiencing nature, whether incidental or intentional, for mental, physical and social health – our general wellbeing. Benefits include: boosting the immune system, improving mood, decreasing blood pressure, inflammation and blood sugar, restoring attention, reducing headaches, reducing stress, anxiety and fatigue, which contribute to improved sleep and much more.
Like other restorative practices, the benefits of this practice are enhanced and deepened through regular practice.
About me
My name is Alex Gaut and I was the first certified 'Forest Therapy Guide' in South Australia, with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs.
I have just submitted a Masters Research thesis in environmental psychology, specialising in nature and wellbeing. I have a background in education and environmental conservation, and am a Fellow of the Governor’s Leadership Foundation. I am also a trained first aider.
I believe that nature connection is a positive pathway to wellbeing for both people and planet.
Cost
I provide these sessions for free because I think this work is needed in the world and the gift economy is becoming more important than ever. However, I also know that there is value in this work. I invite you to consider how much this session might cost and then donate that amount to one of the following environmental charities or to a charity of your choice:
FAQs
What if the weather is too hot/cold/wet?
It is important to be comfortable during these experiences, so sessions will be cancelled via email if the temperature is forecast to be 30°C or above on the day before the event, or if the weather forecast is too severe in any other way. An email confirmation will be sent the day before to confirm whether or not the event will go ahead.
What are the transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?
Unfortunately there is no public transport option to this location.
There is free parking and park entry if you park at Gate 13, where we will be meeting.
What do I bring to the event?
Weather appropriate clothing and shoes. I recommend closed shoes because the paths are quite gravelly but if you prefer open shoes, feel free.
Sun smart gear.
Water.
How can I contact the organiser with any questions?
Please contact Alex via email: naturewellbeingaus@gmail.com
What dates are available?
I will be running these sessions one Sunday a month, between 18 April and 21 November 2021. To see all dates and book, click here.
Jan
21
9:30 AM09:30
Nature Forest Therapy with Compassion Focused Training
Phone Michelle Brenner on 0478 611 244 for bookings.
Booking is essential as there are limited spaces.
$30.00
Meet at 9.15 am.
69 Hewlett St Park, opposite Alfred St, Bronte.
Nature Forest Therapy
In the 21st century our body’s experience what is now called ‘technostress’. Technostress is our continuous use of computer, mobile phones and information technology overload.
“As a result, stress levels may become too high and our body’s nervous system may become overstimulated.”
Therefore bringing such elevated levels down to healthy levels is important for the proper functioning of our wellbeing. Nature Therapy, which includes Shinrin Yoku or Forest Bathing, offers guided walks that are designed to reconnect us towards a balanced, natural healing state.
Compassion Focused Training
Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can sometimes cause the following:
Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones, your financial situation or job, or loss of support services you rely on.
Changes in sleep or eating patterns.
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
Worsening of chronic health problems.
Worsening of mental health conditions.
Increased use of tobacco, and/or alcohol and other substances
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may be stressful for people.
Fear and anxiety about a new disease and what could happen can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. However, these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID.
Coping with stress in a healthy and compassionate way will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.
Nov
2
9:30 AM09:30
Come and Try permaculture Forest Bathing: Adelaide Hills
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $15. Join us in a beautiful permaculture garden for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
Oct
27
1:00 PM13:00
Forest Bathing at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
Forest Bathing session at our beautiful private sanctuary less than 1 hour south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Join us in this pristine river environment for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
For bookings click here.
Oct
26
9:30 AM09:30
Come and Try Forest Bathing: Adelaide
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $15. Join us in a beautiful pocket of urban nature for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
Sep
22
to Sep 23
Flower Crowns for the Spring Equinox at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
Join us for this new fun event to celebrate the spring equinox, when there are 12 days of daylight and 12 days of night and we move into the longer warmer days of summer. We will wander this beautiful property to gather flowers and foliage and then sit in the shaded woodlot to create our flower crowns. A morning of fun and relaxation and nature connection. This event is partnered with an afternoon Forest Bathing session (you are welcome to wear your crown!) for a full day nature retreat.
For bookings click here.
Sep
22
to Sep 23
Forest Bathing for the Spring Equinox at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
Join us for Forest Bathing to celebrate the spring equinox, when there are 12 days of daylight and 12 days of night and we move into the longer warmer days of summer. Join us in this pristine river environment for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
This event is partnered with a morning Flower Crown making session for you to create your own full day nature retreat.
For bookings click here.
Sep
21
9:30 AM09:30
Come and Try Forest Bathing: Adelaide
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $15. Join us in a beautiful pocket of urban nature for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
Sep
7
9:30 AM09:30
International Forest Bathing Day - Come and Try Forest Bathing: Adelaide
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $15 on International Forest Bathing Day. Join us in a beautiful pocket of urban nature for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
Sep
1
2:00 PM14:00
Fathers Day with a difference at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
If Fathers Day is a tricky time for you (for whatever reason) come and spend time with us in this beautiful nature. Nature has an amazing way to ‘hold space’ for us to experience whatever we need to. Held at our beautiful private sanctuary less than 1 hour south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Join us in this pristine river environment for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
For bookings click here.
Aug
31
9:30 AM09:30
Come and Try Forest Bathing: Adelaide
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $15. Join us in this beautiful authentic Japanese garden for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
For bookings click here.
Jun
29
2:00 PM14:00
Come and Try Forest Bathing: Adelaide
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $10. Join us in a beautiful pocket of urban nature for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
For bookings click here.
Jun
23
9:30 AM09:30
Forest Bathing at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
This session is part of our Winter Solstice Full Nature Immersion Retreat - book for the whole event or one Forest Bathing Session (or add in breakfast if you like). Held at our beautiful private sanctuary less than 1 hour south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Join us in this pristine river environment for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
For bookings click here.
Jun
22
7:00 PM19:00
Moonlit Forest Bathing at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
Celebrate the shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice, with shared meals around a fire, a moonlit night Forest Bathing session and a morning Forest Bathing session to really see The Sanctuary at its best times of dusk and morning. This event is ‘modular’ in nature - you can book for ‘The total package’ including bonus gift for a booking for 2, or pick and choose the elements of the event that suit you best e.g., you may like to stay in other accommodation and join us for breakfast, or book for Forest Bathing on the Sunday morning.
The Sanctuary, Yundi is our beautiful private sanctuary less than 1 hour south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
For bookings click here.
Jun
22
to Jun 23
Winter Solstice Full Nature Immersion Retreat at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
Celebrate the shortest day of the year, the Winter Solstice, with shared meals around a fire, a moonlit night Forest Bathing session and a morning Forest Bathing session to really see The Sanctuary at its best times of dusk and morning. This event is ‘modular’ in nature - you can book for ‘The total package’ including bonus gift for a booking for 2, or pick and choose the elements of the event that suit you best e.g., you may like to stay in other accommodation and join us for breakfast, or book for Forest Bathing on the Sunday morning.
The Sanctuary, Yundi is our beautiful private sanctuary less than 1 hour south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
For bookings click here.
Jun
9
9:30 AM09:30
Forest Bathing at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
Forest Bathing session at our beautiful private sanctuary less than 1 hour south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Join us in this pristine river environment for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
May
25
9:00 AM09:00
Come and Try Forest Bathing: Adelaide
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $10. Join us in a beautiful pocket of urban nature for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
May
18
2:00 PM14:00
Forest Bathing at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
Forest Bathing session at our beautiful private sanctuary less than 1 hour south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Join us in this pristine river environment for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
May
11
9:00 AM09:00
Come and Try Forest Bathing: Adelaide
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $10. Join us in a beautiful pocket of urban nature for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
May
5
10:00 AM10:00
Nature Connection Experience: Adelaide
Unwind, relax, rejuvenate, restore. If you are overwhelmed by the ‘busyness’ of everday life, then this is a great antidote. Experience calm and space with nature as our partner.
Apr
30
3:30 PM15:30
Forest Bathing (Nature Connection) Walk - Centennial Park, Sydney
Forest Bathing is being called "The New Yoga", but actually connecting to nature in meaningful ways is something humans have been practicing for thousands of years in different cultures all around the world. We know from nature-based Indigenous cultures that moving slowly in nature is a way to deeply listen to inner and outer landscapes. It connects us with our intuition, our deep inner knowing. In our modern world we’ve lost touch with such practices and tend to devalue them. I invite you to come walk with me and remember…
Price $30. Click here to book.
Apr
27
2:00 PM14:00
Forest Bathing at The Sanctuary, Yundi: South Australia Fleurieu Peninsula
Forest Bathing session at our beautiful private sanctuary less than 1 hour south of Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Join us in this pristine river environment for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
Apr
14
1:00 PM13:00
Forest Bathing at the beach with pebble mandalas: Adelaide
Are you a beach lover? Then this is the forest bathing for you! No actual swimming involved but a gentle, mindful exploration of this beautiful protected Marine Reserve beach. The beach is a perfect place to connect with our senses and we will have an opportunity to create a nature based mandala using pebbles, shells or drawing in the sand. This is more than just a ‘walk on the beach’, come and experience it for yourself.
Apr
13
2:00 PM14:00
The Magic of Stillness: Coffs Harbour
Feel like your life is speeding by? Or your head is too noisy? The medicine of the forest is waiting!
Experience the practice of shinrin yoku (or forest bathing) in the beautiful the Orara East State Forest on the Mid North Coast of NSW.
This short 3 hour walk will focus on the beauty of stillness, slowing down and and letting go your worldly concerns. Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, Lucy Van Sambeek invites you on a slow gentle walk to help you (re)connect with the more-than-human world and engage all your senses, enfolded in nature’s stillness.
Apr
13
9:00 AM09:00
Come and Try Forest Bathing: Adelaide
Come and Try Forest Bathing for just $10. Join us in a beautiful pocket of urban nature for a guided nature connection experience. Experience tuning in to your senses to see, hear, feel, smell and taste as you are guided to slow down and take some time to nurture yourself in nature. This is more than just a ‘walk in the park’, come and experience it for yourself.
Apr
7
10:00 AM10:00
Nature Connection Experience: Adelaide
Unwind, relax, rejuvenate, restore. If you are overwhelmed by the ‘busyness’ of everday life, then this is a great antidote. Experience calm and space with nature as our partner.
Apr
7
9:30 AM09:30
Shinrin-yoku Nature Forest Therapy: Sydney
Open your awareness to nature in a way that reconnects you to the living environment. There will be times for talking and times for silence, times for sitting and times for slow walking. This is a nature experience, an opportunity to immerse yourself in relationship with nature. Everyone is different, and every time is different. With a guide you can step into the healing power of nature.