Nature and Forest Therapy for Anxiety and Depression

  • Details

  • 5/19/22
  • 6 - 8 p.m.
  • $0 – $30
  • All Ages
  • Categories

  • Outdoor

Event Description

Join Backyard Abundance and Good Medicine for an immersive experience with the land and the (just passed) full moon. Bring your whole self on this gentle, reflective walk with the land and let's see what we encounter. We will be provided with an opportunity to slow down and be present with self and with the world around us. We will bath in the medicine of the land, known as Shinrin-Yoku, a practice that first started in Japan. 


Wellness is a big part of Forest Therapy. Much research has been done on the restorative benefits of forest therapy and time spent with the more-than-human-world. Hundreds of clinical and non-clinical studies have been done and show numerous positive effects including reductions in stress, anxiety, depression, mental fatigue, anger and pain. Improvements noted include better cognitive functioning, sleep, mood, confidence and creativity. 


Time with our nature kin also boosts our immune systems, regulates blood pressure, improves relationships, increases feelings of gratitude and so much more.


This is an all outdoor event.


THINGS TO BRING

  • Blankets, mats, walking poles, anything to help you feel comfortable, are welcome
  • Appropriate dress for weather

REGISTRATION

Sliding scale fee: $30 - $0, based upon your access to resources.


Backyard Abundance members receive a 10% discount.

INVITE FRIENDS AND FAMILY

We need a minimum of 10 attendees to host the class. Please invite friends and family to ensure the event happens as scheduled. We would love to meet your loved ones.


EDUCATOR

Guided by Emelia Sautter, Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, foundress of Good Medicine, Nature and Forest Therapy Practice in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.


LOCATION

Palisades-Kepler State Park, 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA. (Meet at the river, west end parking lot)


COVID-19

The event is held outside. Masks are optional. We will try to maintain 6' distancing.


SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

This class was developed in collaboration with many community partners using grant funding from the Johnson County Community Foundation and the Roy A. Hunt Foundation. It would not be possible without these sponsors and supporters. Please frequent these generous organizations to thank them for donations of time, materials and funds.

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