Nature Therapy of Michiana
Welcome to Nature Therapy of Michiana
Guided Nature & Forest Therapy Sessions with Karen Joy
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Nature & Forest Therapy, what is it? One of the best answers comes from the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy (ANFT), where I learned to Guide the practice and obtained my certification: "Forest Therapy, also known as Forest Bathing, is a relational practice that brings people into deeper intimacy with natural places." But, it goes even deeper than that... It brings us back into a deeper relationship with our physical body. The 2-3 hour long sessions begin with a guided awareness to explore and experience each of your senses, inviting you to arrive and become fully present. It explores the relationships we have with each other. Sessions are offered in groups of between 3-12 participants and include sharing circles after each exploration. These are respectfully offered as a place to come together to share and acknowledge what you are each noticing. It explores how nature supports and nourishes us, in a variety of ways. Sessions include an introduction with a basic history of the practice, and some of the health benefits such as increased NK-cell production, reduction in cortisol levels, and increased heart-rate variability. And, each session closes with a sharing of tea and food, locally harvested and prepared by your Guide. There is also a decades-long history and growing body of scientific evidence demonstrating the many health and wellness benefits of this practice, from stress reduction and heart health to healing trauma and grief. Booking is available on our website at locations throughout SW Michigan! |