Forest Bathing with Justin Ferko, Certified Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy
When was the last time you had a moment to just be? Are you looking to disconnect from technology and the busy-ness of life? Do you long to reconnect with Earth?
A Forest Bathing walk is a slow meditative 2-2.5 hour guided walk of a mile or less in which you will be invited to experience the natural environment at various locations on the land. The practice originated in Japan where it is known as shinrin yoku. It’s called “Forest Bathing” because we walk under the trees and trees produce phytoncides, although invisible to us, they protect trees from fungi and research shows that being in the presence of phytoncides boosts our immune system!
As your guide, Justin will support your experience by inviting your awareness of your senses and offering a series of invitations. Each walk concludes with tea and the invitation to share your experience with the other participants.
Upcoming Forest Bathing Workshops:
Each workshop will be unique so please join us for all of them!
April 13, 2025 from 2PM-4:30PM
In this Earth Day-inspired walk, we will explore our invitations to befriend the
Earth and More-Than-Human beings.
August 26, 2025 from 9-11:30AM * Morning Edition*
Wake up early and join us for a cup of coffee or tea looking over the meadow and
labyrinth at Amethyst!
September 21, 2025 from 2PM-4:30PM * Campfire Edition*
In celebration of the Autumn Equinox, we will gather at the campfire.
Benefits of Forest Bathing can include:
a sense of calm, feeling rested
lowered blood pressure
boosted immune system from phytoncides
connection to one’s own body and the Earth
re-engaging with the sense of play
beginning a nature-connection practice of your own
What you can expect on a Forest Bathing walk:
a fun, mindful experience outdoors connecting with nature, yourself, and community
What you should bring:
Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring layers for changes in temperature, a water bottle, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray
a cushion or stadium seat to sit on or a camp chair to sit on during invitations and sharing time, some will be available to borrow
Epi pen if you have been prescribed one for allergies
Additional Notes:
Folks of all mobilities are able to participate
Please no dogs or cell phones.
Age 18+ only.
Cancellation Policy: Tickets are nonrefundable, and we do not offer transfers to other dates. If Amethyst needs to cancel, we will post cancellation on the website here, contact you, and refund your payment. If you are unable to attend you can give your ticket to a friend in your place.
