What is Forest Therapy?
Forest Therapy, also known as Forest Bathing, is a mindfulness-based practice that helps improve a person’s mind, body, and spirit through nature. Forest Therapy is based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, that was developed to combat the health risks of urban living. As a Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Josh guides people on activities in nature that helps them become present in the moment through their five senses. This practice has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, fight anxiety, regulate blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, improve creativity and more!
Forest therapy is for anyone that is needing a break from the world and is ready to spend time outdoors to slowdown, be present, and enjoy the healing power of nature.
(NOTE-THIS IS NOT A PSYCHOTHERAPY COUNSELING SERVICE FOR THOSE SEEKING MENTAL HEALTH THERAPY. NOR IS IT A SUBSTITUTE FOR PSYCHOTHERAPY COUNSELING. THIS IS A PRACTICE TO HELP PEOPLE LEARN HOW TO DEVELOP A SENSE OF WELLNESS THROUGH NATURE.)
What can I expect?
During a Forest Therapy walk, you will be able to participate in intentionally-designed experiences that connect your senses into the present moment to bring a deep connection to the forest around you.
Forest Therapy walks are held in different areas around Huntsville. These are public trails or parks where you and the guide will venture out and be surrounded by nature to participate in the forest therapy activities.
The walks last 2 hours and the walking covers less than a mile in distance. At the end of the walk you will feel more relaxed and rejuvenated as you connect with nature!
FOREST
THERAPY
Public Forest Therapy Walk
A public walk is a Forest Therapy session that is open to the public where you venture out with others to participate in the Forest Therapy activities. These walks are held at public locations around North Alabama. Must by 18 year old or older to participate.
The cost is $40 per person.
Private Forest Therapy Walk
A private walk is where you schedule a time to meet with Josh at one of the designated Forest Therapy locations and you and your party will be led on your own personal Forest Therapy walk.
The cost for an individual or couple is $100. For private walks with 3 or more in your party, an additional $25 is added per person. Must by 18 years old or older to participate.
To book a private walk, learn more about community/cooperate walks, or learn about walks with Christian based practices email Josh at Northwardcounseling@gmail.com.
Upcoming Forest Therapy Walks
August 3rd, 2024 Harvest, AL 8am FULL
Sep. 7th, 2024 Huntsville, AL 8am FULL
October 5th, 2024 Harvest, AL 1:00pm
Nov. 2nd, 2024 Huntsville, AL 9:00am
Dec. 7th, 2024 Harvest, AL 9:00am
Location of the walk is not published to prevent people from attending without registering. You may contact to ask the specific location or you will be told after registration.
Testimonials
I went on the Forest Therapy Walk with Josh Harris and it was a great experience. Taking time to enjoy the beautiful things of nature, the beautiful vegetation and the calming sounds of water and birds singing helped me come away with a wonderful peace and feeling of being refreshed.
Cathy- Retired Entrepreneur
When I was first asked I had no idea what a Forest Therapy Walk was. After the walk I discovered that sometimes I need to take time for me, to sit still, relax, and be in the moment. It was very needed and refreshing. Love being outdoors. I would strongly recommend trying this walk.
Tim- Clergy
I experienced nature in a whole new way on this guided forest walk with Josh as he guided me through the various invitations utilizing my senses in a way I hadn’t done before. I learned how important it is to slow down while in nature. I felt relaxed and refreshed by this experience. I highly encourage people to try it out for themselves!
Nicole- Engineer
