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 1.5km on relatively flat trails. You will be introduced to the forest through a series of slow quiet experiences and mindfulness activities. With guidance from Carolyn you will be encouraged to wander and explore with curiosity and tune in with your senses. This helps us to remember that we are part of the natural world and allows us to receive the nurturing benefits of the forest. This walk is suitable for participants 16 years and above.

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

Where: Sanitorium Lake, Macedon Regional Park

Parking: Lions Head Road car park, marked with a wooden parks Victoria sign labelled Sanatorium Lake.

Toilets: Note that the closest toilets are at Days Picnic ground, on the left as you drive to the meeting point.

Meet: Just inside the Parks Victoria boom gate at the car park.

Wear: Comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes for the outdoors and suitable to the forecast weather conditions. These tracks can sometimes get muddy.

Please bring: In a daypack: a water bottle, any medication, warm layers, sunhat, sunscreen & waterproof jacket (we will continue in light rain). Note; Because we do not walk fast, your body temperature is likely to drop so a warm layer is advised.

What's supplied: All materials needed for the session, odourless insect repellent, a sit mat and light refreshments towards the end of the session.

Please contact Carolyn if you have any questions or concerns.