Nature can be a lifesaver when it comes to having a healthy mind. Walking in nature can relax you, improve your attention span and uplift your mood. Mindfulness activities can also deepen your connection with calmness and release stress. With Kira, a certified Forest Therapy Guide, you'll learn how to easily relax and connect with nature mindfully. Come chill with us in the City Botanic Gardens and meet other young (12-25), like-minded people.

For youth aged 15-25

If you are feeling ill, do not attend this walk.

Brought to you by Well-Natured Wandering, Brisbane's Forest Therapy Guide

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Background Info

Forest therapy is an evidence-based, research-supported Public health practice that originates from Japan where it is known as Shinrin-yoku (translating to 'immersion in the forest atmosphere' or 'forest bathing'). There are many important mental and physical benefits awaiting you, such as

reduced blood pressure (systolic and diastolic)
lowered pulse rate
reduced stress hormone (cortisol) level
reduced anxiety
surge in the activity of cancer- and tumor-fighting blood cells (‘natural killer’ cells)
active exposure to anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-viral substances emitted by trees and plants (phytoncides)
increased happiness and positive mood
enhanced energy level
better concentration

It came about as an intervention for the intense stress levels experienced by the working population. Nowadays, doctors in Japan can provide green prescriptions to stressed out patients because they know nature's important capacity to recuperate our mental and physical health. With so many beautiful natural spaces around Australia, it only makes sense that we make the most of them to boost public health and wellbeing.