Forest Therapy Walks
Virtual and In-person Guided Sensory Experiences
Reconnect With
Your Wild Side!
Forest therapy helps people reconnect and form meaningful relationships with themselves, their communities, and nature through guided experiences. It is a relational practice characterized by a heart centered approach. This approach awakens our understanding of the inherent ability to be present in our bodies and connect with our intuition and imagination.
Sensory experiences facilitate a heart-centered connection where we realize that we are intrinsically a part of the life all around us. We have chemistry together! We are family. And when we allow ourselves space and time for this relationship to grow we quickly realize the more than human world has its own kind of ability to sense and to feel. We become known by other beings and we in turn come to know them.
Barriers to sustainability are emotional challenges that include isolation, disconnection, and apathy. Forest therapy promotes a sense of belonging, we begin to recognize important relationships. When we simply listen, we learn to be attentive to the expressions of other beings. Nothing in nature survives by itself. We survive by tending relationships with other species. In a healthy relationship, reciprocity is where both parties know each other and are known by each other.
During a forest therapy walk, participants may find themselves in a state often characterized by a soft somatic awareness, a sense of timelessness, an active imagination, and a curious open heartedness.
When we simply listen, we learn to be attentive to the expressions of other beings. Nothing in nature survives by itself.
We survive by tending relationships with other species.
Karen Olson
Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guide
(Currently in Training)
A forest therapy guide works in partnership with nature to accompany and support others on their personal journeys.
Trees cuddle and stand closely together. They love company and like to take things slow. There is in fact a friendship among trees."* This friendship is multifaceted. When trees converse, the air is charged with chemical substances, fragrances, hormones, and electrical connections. Placing myself in the middle of the conversation I am illuminated by it. This charged atmosphere infuses me with a sense of well-being, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. I am surrounded by the empathy that is the forest.
Early 2020, I discovered the Japanese concept of forest bathing. I decided to test the theory on myself. Each time I felt disconnected or was experiencing social anxiety, I set out to interact with nature as soon as possible. I made sure to be completely present and relaxed in the environment, engaging all the senses. I quickly realized the benefits. Each time I came back to the table, so to speak, I had an increased ability to connect to those around me,
After filming my Fibre Arts Take Two class in May of 2024, which includes a segment on forest bathing, I decided that connecting with and learning from others who engage in this form of therapy was an important next step. I soon after signed up to train as a ANFT guide. This model of guiding resonates so well with what I had learned and experienced from my personal walks. I have nearly completed my training and am ready to guide.
During a forest therapy walk, participants may find themselves in a state often characterized by a soft somatic awareness, a sense of timelessness, an active imagination, and a curious open heartedness.
FAQs
What is a forest therapy walk?
A forest therapy guide works in partnership with nature to accompany and support others on their personal journeys. The guide offers a series of invitations designed to awaken your senses and develop a reciprocal relationship with nature.
How long does a walk last?
A walk generally lasts anywhere from one to two hours. It often depends on the place, time of year, and circumstances. This is uninterrupted and undistracted time in nature.
What do I need to do during the walk?
The invitations offered are just that. You can respond to an invitation in any way you choose or see fit. There is no right or wrong way to engage. If an invitation does not resonate with you that is perfectly fine. Walks are designed to be safe and accessible to all. It is a gentle guided walk at a slow pace.
How is it possible to do a virtual forest walk?
Connecting with nature does not need to be done in a forest. A person can participate in a virtual walk while indoors or in their own home. There are many ways in which we can awaken our senses in a home environment. In the winter months or for those who are not able to go out, a walk can be a wonderful way to develop a reciprocal relationship with nature. If you are able to be outside during a virtual walk, great!
What does it cost?
While Karen is continuing to train with ANFT all guided walks are free. If a scheduled time does not suit you, please email Karen for availability at karen@karenolsonphotography.com
When you attend a free walk, you will be asked to fill out an evaluation form to support my training.
Participate in a Forest Therapy Walk.
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Individual Virtual Forest Therapy Walk
This option accommodates those who prefer to have a one-on-one experience. Please choose a time that is convenient for you.
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Group Virtual Walk February 3rd
Enjoy the company and perspective of others as you experience a virtual forest therapy walk on February 3rd at 9:00 am Eastern.
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Group Virtual Walk February 7th
Enjoy the company and perspcetive of others as you experience a virtual forest therapy walk on February 7th at 12:00 pm Eastern.