Guided Shinrin-yoku: Relax & Reconnect in Nature

Join ANFT certified forest therapy guide, Katie Venechuk, to explore the relaxing practice of guided forest bathing and the beauty of Blandford Nature Center on a late fall evening after dark! Our program begins with a brief introduction to the background and research of Shinrin-yoku (translated in English as “forest bathing”), how it differs from a hike in the woods, and why it’s internationally recognized as an effective tool for natural stress release. From there, you’ll be guided in a relaxing forest bathing experience while exploring the beautiful woods and meadows at Blandford beneath the twilight sky; helping you calm your mind, reconnect to nature, and experience your time outdoors in a new way. Our program ends with with a candlelit wild foraged tea service, offering you new tastes and nourishment from nature, a snack, and a little time to visit as a community. Depending on the outside temperature, tea will be served either in the forest or indoors at the nature center for time to warm up. You’ll be guided back to the parking lot by our end time at 8pm. Originally launched in 2023, we’re excited for the continuation of this popular monthly program!  We hope you’ll join us as we slow down, find presence, and enjoy the wilderness of BNC through the lens of Shinrin-yoku.

Program Includes:  A sit pad and blanket to use during the program, hot stone hand warmers, essential oils for meditation, wild foraged tea and a small snack, after-dark access to the nature center grounds

Instructor: Katie Venechuk, founder and program guide at In Your Element Wellness and Certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.

Cost:
Non-Member: $32
Non-member (20% discount): $25.60

Note: This program is for adults ages 18 and older. Pre-registration is required due to limited capacity. Online registration closes at noon on the day before the program. If the program sells out, you may complete your online registration to be added to the waitlist. We will contact you if spots become available. This program will take place mostly outdoors, so please dress for the weather. In the event of severe weather, this program will be cancelled, and participants will be notified of their refund options and/or a possible makeup date.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests received at least 7 days before the scheduled program are eligible for a 50% refund of the total registration cost, not including the credit card processing fee. Due to administration costs, full refunds are not available. Cancellation requests received within 7 days of a program are not eligible for a refund. In the event that Blandford must cancel the program, you will be given the option to reschedule or receive a refund. All community programs will have a registrant minimum. If the minimum is not met, you will be contacted by Blandford Nature Center and notified of your refund options.