Guided Forest Therapy Walk

4635 Lake Harbor Road,Norton Shores MI 49441

15 October, 2022

Description

Join us in the forest. Together we will slow our bodies and minds, unplug from technology and open our senses, and find pleasure in connecting to the real world of nature around us. What is Forest Therapy? Forest Therapy is inspired by the research-based practice of Shinrin-Yoku or Forest Bathing. Studies have proven what we know to be true, spending time in nature has a positive effect on human health and wellness. People who spend time in nature experience a decrease in stress levels, improved outlook, focus, and energy, as well as many other health benefits. What to Expect During the walk, your ANFT-certified guide will offer the group a series of crafted invitations designed to facilitate the slowing down of your mind and body, the awakening of your senses, and your connection to the natural world. Following each invitation, we will come together in community to reflect on and share our experiences. At the close of each walk, we will share forest tea and a light snack. Each walk will last 2.5-3 hours. This experience is designed to be slow and gentle; we will not be moving very far or quickly. The sensory-based invitations are just that, invitations. Everything that we do on a guided walk is open to your own modification or interpretation. Because of this, a Guided Forest Therapy walk is accessible for many people with varied mobility challenges. Can I do this? Please consider your level of comfort with the following mobility requirements for a guided walk. Sit, stand, and walk (less than a mile) for the 2.5-3 hour guided walk Walk on uneven path/earth Sit on a pad on the ground or on a portable camp stool/chair Please reach out to us directly if you have specific mobility challenges. As an alternative to a public walk, we offer private guided walks that are customizable to location or mobility challenges. What to wear and bring on your walk Please dress comfortably and appropriately for walking, sitting on the ground, and moving through nature. Dress in layers. We will be moving slowly through the forest, sometimes under the cover of trees. I recommend wearing or bringing one layer more than you would for a normal walk in the same weather. Wear hiking boots or other shoes that you are comfortable getting dirty.Consider bringing water/drink, a backpack, a walking stick, a portable stool, or a camp chair. Consider leaving your phone in your car or turning off all notifications to unplug and experience the present moment in nature. Other Details Ages 12 and up Humans only, please do not bring pets Each group will be limited to 15 Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the walk, we will meet in the parking lot. WeatherAll walks will be held rain or shine. If the weather forecast has extreme weather such as freezing temperatures below 20 F, snowstorms, thunder/lightning, or high winds we will notify you the evening prior to the walk, about cancellation and re-schedule date. Cancellation and Refund Policy Please note there is a NO REFUND policy. A refund will only be issued to participants if the event is canceled by Tiny Turtle Nature Therapy due to insufficient enrollment, extreme weather conditions, or Covid-19 restrictions. Workshops may be canceled prior to the start date and participants will be notified via email and/or phone, and a full refund will be processed. Covid-19This event will be held entirely outside with ample space for social distancing. The choice to wear a mask or not will be honored. Please do not attend the walk if you are sick or have tested positive for Covid-19 within the past 5 days. For more information, or if you have questions, please contact Tracy at 231.563.0931 www.tinyturtlenaturetherapy.com