Kawartha Conservation is offering two free forest therapy sessions on Wednesday, January 24th at Ken Reid Conservation Area near Lindsay. The sessions take place on Bell Let’s Talk Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health.
Forest bathing is a practice that originated in Japan as a physiological and psychological exercise called shinrin-yoku, which literally translates to “being in the atmosphere of the forest.” The practice was introduced in 1982 by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries as a way to help stressed city residents improve their well-being while also communicating the importance of forests in society.
Unlike a traditional hike in the woods, forest bathing is a contemplative and sensory experience designed to help participants fully embrace the present moment by taking a slow walk in a forested area while engaging all their the senses to connect with the natural environment. This can include activities such as breathing in the fresh forest air, listening to the sounds of nature, and observing the different plants and animals.
Research has shown that spending time in nature not only reduces stress and enhances mood, but also has a positive impact on cognitive function and creativity. Nature immersion has been linked to improved memory, heightened attention, and increased problem-solving abilities.
Director of stewardship and conservation lands at Kawartha Conservation, Kristie Virgoe is also a certified forest therapy guide and will lead participants on a 90-minute mindful journey that connects them with nature and allows them to unplug from the daily stressors of life.
“Nature has an incredible capacity to nurture our mental well-being, and our forest therapy events offer a unique opportunity for people to experience the restorative power of the natural world,” Virgoe says in a media release.
VIDEO: Forest Therapy with Kristie Virgoe
The forest therapy sessions will run at Ken Reid Conservation Area on January 28 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and again from noon to 1:30 p.m.
While a forest therapy session normally costs $10, these sessions are free — although Kawartha Conservation will collect voluntary donations to support the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association.
“On Bell Let’s Talk Day, we want to encourage open conversations about mental health while providing a serene and supportive environment for individuals to connect with nature,” Virgoe says.
