Shinrin-Yoku: Renew and Reconnect with Nature
$40 General / $35 Member
Check-in time: 5:45 pm
Program starts at 6:00 pm
Your prompt arrival will ensure a more pleasurable experience not only for yourself but for the other participants as well.
Program Description
Nature therapy, also known as Shinrin-Yoku (森林浴 ) or forest bathing, is a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in the natural world to enhance overall well-being. During a forest bathing session guided by Judy, you will have the opportunity to fully connect with nature and yourself by mindfully engaging all your senses.
This practice offers a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. Spending focused time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, boost the immune system, and enhance creativity. By embracing our inherent connection to nature, we can experience a deep sense of relaxation and improved overall health.
Forest bathing sessions are suitable for individuals of all fitness levels and involve a leisurely walk that emphasizes sensory awareness. The session begins with a meditative exercise designed to ground participants, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the present moment. Throughout the experience, there are periods of sensory-focused engagement where you can deepen your connection with the natural environment in our serene Garden.
By partaking in forest bathing, you have the opportunity to tap into the healing power of nature, promoting a profound sense of renewal and reconnection with the earth.
Introduction: 15 min
- Forest bathing: Origins, research, and effects on health and well-being.
- Instructor's background and expertise.
- Background information about the Garden.
- Logistics and safety guidelines.
- Overview of activities: Invitations and tea gathering.
- First gathering circle: Introductions and a simple nature prompt.
Pleasures of Presence: 15 min
Guided meditation to ground participants and enhance sensory awareness.
Invitations: 45 min
- What's in Motion: Engaging with the natural surroundings through movement.
- 2-3 additional invitations tailored to the specific site/weather conditions.
- Sit spot activity: Resting in one place and heightening sensory perception. Each invitation lasts for 15-20 minutes.
- Gathering circle after each invitation for sharing experiences.
- Final sharing circle to reflect on the experience.
- Expressing gratitude to nature.
- Poem or other closing activity.
Instructor:
Judy Karnia is a nature therapy guide certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.
She is also a part-time coach and travel writer and a retired veterinarian. Even while growing up in inner-city Chicago, she loved being outdoors. She moved to Scottsdale, Arizona in 2005 to enjoy outdoor activities year-round and found a deep connection to the desert. She pursued training in forest bathing to help strengthen the connection of people to nature in order to improve their health and to help preserve natural areas.
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The Garden is located at 1125 North 3rd Avenue, between 3rd Avenue and Latham (2 blocks North of Roosevelt). Parking is available at the garden.
When riding the Light Rail, exit at the Central and Roosevelt stop. The Garden is located on the west side of the rail, 0.3 miles from the station; it is directly behind the Irish Cultural Center (1106 N. Central Ave, Phoenix), just north of Portland Avenue. The Garden entrance is across the parking lot at 1125 N. 3rd Avenue.
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