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Nature Connection Experience

  • Belair National Park Gate 13, Sheoak Road Crafers West Australia (map)

Nature is the therapist. Guides help to open the doors.

This practice is known as forest bathing, or forest or nature therapy. It is inspired by the Japanese practice called shinrin yoku.

It is not about strenuous bushwalking, or identification, or ‘thinking’. It is an opportunity to engage our senses as we allow ourselves to just ‘be’ in nature. The experience involves a series of guided ‘invitations’ to help us connect with nature, calm our busy minds, perhaps be playful and have some fun. The experience is tailored to the needs of each group, which is limited to a maximum of 10 people.

With a focus on slowing down and awakening the senses, this restorative practice will help to 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, ourselves and others. 

Nature connection supports the development of sensory awareness, emotional regulation, reducing our 'fight/flight' stress response, boosting our immune system and increases creativity, energy and clear thinking. All of these can support our ability to do the things we need, want and have to do every day.

In a world where people of all ages are increasingly disconnected from nature, a deliberate nature-based experience such as this can help us access the wellbeing benefits of nature. 

If you are overwhelmed by the noise and 'busyness' of modern life, then this will help to de-stress, relax, restore and reconnect.

Your guide, Alex Gaut (a Certified Nature Therapy Guide) combine all these elements, and ensures the experience is safe and supported. 

Each experience lasts 2.5 - 3 hours, and goes no more than a kilometre. This event is suitable for people aged 16 and over. 

Alex will be running these sessions on the first Sunday of every month until 7 April 2019.

Tickets: $30 - $70.



FAQs

Where will we meet?

At the car park at Gate 13 on Sheoak Road, Crafers West. Click here to see it on Google Maps. It is near the top end of Sheoak Road, and is almost exactly 30 minutes from Adelaide CBD. If you come from the bottom of Sheoak Road be aware that it has several traffic slowing points and is very steep, so it takes longer than you think to get to Gate 13.

Will I be safe?

I have a current First Aid certificate and will be carrying a first aid kit. We will be walking very slowly for less than 1 km and at times may choose to sit or lie on the ground. Please advise any particular health concerns that may be relevant, especially allergies. Please feel free to contact Alex to discuss any concerns on 0418 921 849.

What should I bring into the event?

Spring weather can be a bit unpredictable so wear or bring weather-appropriate clothing. If sunny then suncream and a shady hat are recommended. Closed-toed shoes are also recommended.

Water, and any particular snacks you may want or require. Snacks are provided at the end of the experience, and are typically fruit and nuts. If you have any dietary restrictions or allergies please contact Alex at naturewellbeingaus@gmail.com to advise prior to the event.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

E-mail: naturewellbeingaus@gmail.com

Phone Alex on 0418 921 849

What's the refund policy?

The event will only be cancelled in the case of extreme weather or safety hazards, e.g. thunderstorms or a fire ban rated severe or above, or the weather forecast from Adelaide (Bureau of Meteorology) is 35 degrees C or above. Participants will be advised of cancellation by text message or you can call Alex to check. If the event is cancelled a full refund will be provided. If you are unable to attend the event and cancel via the Eventbrite process a full refund will be available up to 1 day prior to the event.

To book, go here.

Earlier Event: November 18
Nature Connection Experience Adelaide Hills
Later Event: January 6
Nature Connection Experience