Prepare for your walk
ARE THERE ANY SPECIFIC RULES TO PARTICIPATE?
Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the time indicated on your ticket. Make sure you have filled and signed the Waiver (Participation Agreement and Release ) online BEFORE the event. Keep your cellphones OFF during the entire experience. Do not wear fragrances/perfumes (it's about smelling trees). Leave pets at home (contact us for service animals). And be at least 16 years old and supervised by an adult.
CAN ANYONE PRACTICE FOREST BATHING?
Forest therapy walks are short and simple and do not require any particular level of fitness. It is not yoga, or a hike, or a powerwalk or a botanical class. It does NOT involve swimming.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
Comfortable footwear, a bottle of water, maybe a snack...and anything the weather requires. Please note: we often sit on the ground (when it's not raining), so choose your clothing accordingly and/or bring a sit pad. You will receive more information via email after you register, with details about the specific site you booked.
HOW LONG DOES A TYPICAL WALK LAST?
A forest walk typically lasts 2 hours (sometimes a bit less, depending on the size of the group). Pacific Pine Wellness asks all participants to check in at least 10 minutes before the time indicated on their ticket and plan to stay for the entire duration of the experience.
IS FOREST THERAPY A FORM OF COUNSELING OR PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPY?
Not at all. It is an immersive, sensory experience in the forest or a wooded area. During the walk, you will be offered a series of  invitations to help you connect with nature and open your senses. At the end of each invitation, participants gather and share (this is always optional).
IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN "FOREST BATHING" and "FOREST THERAPY WALKS"?
"Forest Bathing" refers to the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku (that primarily emphasizes the physical and mental benefits of the experience). "Forest Therapy" or "Forest Therapy walks" refers to the heart-centered relational practice, as defined by the ANFT. Pacific Pine Wellness is powered by an ANFT Certified Guide. On this platform, both terms are used interchangeably.