Masterclass on Forest Therapy: Reconnecting with Nature for Health - Citizen COP 2026

Forest Therapy: Reconnecting People with Nature

Modern life is increasingly shaped by stress, digital technology, busy schedules and growing disconnection from the natural world. This online masterclass introduces Forest Therapy as an evidence-based practice that invites us to slow down, reconnect with nature and support our health and wellbeing.

The session explores the origins of Forest Therapy in Japan, where Shinrin-Yoku, or “forest bathing”, emerged in response to the pressures of modern life. We’ll explore research into how intentional time in nature may support stress reduction, mental wellbeing, sleep, cardiovascular health and restoration.

Participants will discover how guided Forest Therapy sessions offer much more than a walk in the forest. Through gentle invitations to pause, breathe, engage the senses and notice our surroundings, Forest Therapy creates space to reconnect with ourselves and the natural world.

The masterclass will also explore how developing a deeper relationship with nature can foster appreciation, connection and care for the natural environment. By strengthening our relationship with the living world around us, we can recognise the important connections between human wellbeing and the health of our planet.

Whether you’re curious about Forest Therapy, interested in nature-based wellbeing practices, or simply looking for a different way to reconnect with nature, this masterclass offers an opportunity to slow down, learn and explore.

This is a public session by the International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance (INFTA).

For any questions or support, please contact:

info@infta.net

About Citizen COP Australia

Citizen COP Australia is a decentralised, people-powered movement running alongside the global COPs in 2026. Enabled by People For Nature, but intentionally independent and distributed, Citizen COP invites communities, organisations, schools, businesses, artists, and local groups across Australia to host their own events during the COP period. Rather than a single central event, Citizen COP is a nationwide network of conversations, workshops, and actions that bring global climate and nature discussions into local communities. It connects people to science, solutions, and each other, strengthening civic engagement and ensuring citizen voices contribute to Australia’s climate and nature conversations.

https://www.peoplefornature.org.au/citizen-cop

About People For Nature

People For Nature is a volunteer-powered environmental charity empowering communities through climate and biodiversity education, citizen conservation, and science. We believe that when Australians understand and connect with nature, they’re more likely to protect it — safeguarding our climate, ecosystems, and well-being.

Your tax-deductible donation helps us bring initiatives like Citizen COP Australia to life and inspire real change for the planet. https://www.peoplefornature.org.au/donate