Forest/Nature therapy is a guided experience of  slowing down in nature and opening the senses to be in the present moment.  Forest therapy is sometimes called forest bathing which refers to the rejuvenating immersion in nature.  Slowing down in nature increases awareness of nature and relationships between the all beings.  Spending time with the plants, animals, rocks, wind, water, and sun is an opportunity to recognize our connection to and our place in the natural world.   Forest/Nature Therapy Guides holds space for participants by following a standard sequence of invitations to interact with nature and one another to share what they are noticing. Invitations are offered to allow participants to experience nature in a new way.  Slowing down, taking time to notice, wander, and discover the natural world is a gift to that has a ripple effect into all of life and interactions.  Research has shown that there is a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental health benefits to spending time in green spaces.  More on the research is found on the research page tab.
 Forest therapy, as facilitated by an ANFT guide, is more than a walk in the woods, it is the intentional slowing down in nature to increase well-being and connection with oneself and the natural world.  
Nature and Forest Therapy is an opportunity to connect with nature, with oneself, and others.  Like roots grounded to bring nourishment to trees, a pause in nature brings grounding through discovery, beauty, and wonder that nourishes our connection to life. 
 "Forest Therapy is a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to “forest bathing.” Studies have demonstrated a wide array of health benefits, especially in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and for stabilizing and improving mood and cognition. We build on those benefits and look beyond, to what happens when people remember that we are a part of nature, not separate from it, and are related to all other beings in fundamental ways." 
https://www.natureandforesttherapy.earth/about/the-practice-of-forest-therapy