What is Forest Therapy? Forest Therapy is a contemporary practice that originated in Japan, where it is called Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to immersion in the atmosphere of the forest. It was established as a preventative health practice that tunes your senses in to nature. Research shows that this 2 to 3-hour guided wellbeing experience has many benefits. Research has shown that it can improved mental and physical health, reduce stress levels, regulate pulse and blood pressure and elevate mood.

What will happen on the day? During this guided group session, we walk less than 2 kilometres on relatively flat trails. You will be introduced to the forest through a series of slow quiet experiences. As we wander and explore with curiosity we will tune in with our senses and remember that we are part of the natural world. With this practice we can receive the nurturing medicine of the forest. This walk is suitable for participants 16 years and above. Join Carolyn on this walk on Wurundjeri land, in one of the most intact examples of grassy woodland in the Melbourne Metropolitan region.

Time: Please arrive 15 min early so we can start at 10am.

Where: Gresswell Forest Nature Reserve, 233 Greenwood Drive, Bundoora, 3083. Meet near the BBQ shelter.

Parking: Limited off-street parking in car park.Meet: Between the toilet block and the main gate into the Reserve

Wear: Comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes for the outdoors and suitable to the forecast weather conditions.

Please bring: In a daypack: water bottle, snacks (in case you get peckish), any medication, warm layers, sunhat, sunscreen & waterproof jacket (we will continue in light rain), insect repellent and, if you are not comfortable sitting directly on the ground, something to sit or lay on. Note that we do not walk fast so your body tempurature is likely to drop so warm layers is advised.

Please contact Carolyn if you have any questions or concerns.