April 20 Class is SOLD OUT. The Saturday, July 13 | 9:00 - 10:30 AM still has space available.
On this slow-paced walk, you will be invited to experience your breathing, senses, and the natural environment at various locations throughout Wildwood Park. Participants should be able to walk about 1- 1.5 miles on paved, gravel, and wood plank trails with some elevation gain. The program concludes with a lovely forest tea.
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest Bathing or shinrin yoku is a nature-based mindfulness practice and experience of interconnection with physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits. Re-engage the wonder and awe of play, create space for your Eco-grief, and connect with Earth.
This practice originated in Japan where it is known as shinrin yoku. "Bathing" refers to the benefits humans derive from the phytoncides that trees produce to protect themselves. Benefits of Forest Bathing include lowered blood pressure, a sense of calm, time for wonder, and getting to know your neighborhood park and folks with whom you walk in new ways. Each walk will include different invitations and places to explore. No, you don't wear a bathing suit, just comfortable outdoor clothing.
About the Instructor:
Justin Ferko (he/they) is a queer bodhisattva-in-training and Earth poet. As a Certified Forest Bathing Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, Justin facilitates your soul friendship with Mother Earth and your own senses. Justin celebrates the giftedness of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. He supports folks encountering Eco-grief and exploring meaning and purpose in this time of Climate Change. Justin is a 2022 New Contemplative with Spiritual Directors International, a graduate of Oasis Ministries for Spiritual Development, a professional chaplain and educator. You can reach him for spiritual counseling, supervision, or in-person/remotely guided Forest Bathing walks: [email protected] and www.wildspiritpaths.com
What to know before you go:
- Dress for the season, and bring layers for the weather
- Bring water to stay hydrated
- Wear appropriate shoes for trail walking
- You may want sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellant
- Bring a stadium pad or blanket to sit on
- Park facilities include benches and restroom facilities
- No animals can take part in the program, with the exception of service animals
Note: This is an outdoor program. Please bring an EpiPen if you have been prescribed one due to allergies. The program will proceed if there is light rain; however, it would be canceled or rescheduled in the event of strong storms. Please check the email you use during this registration process 1-hour before the program start time for any weather-related updates.
You must be 18 years of age or older to attend this program.
This is a non-refundable program. If you register and are unable to attend we are happy to substitute the name of a friend, or family member to take your place. Please contact us directly for assistance.
Program Contact: Nancy Gates | Assistant Program Manager | [email protected] | 717-599-5188, ext. 2113.
This is a Dauphin County Park Rx wellness program sponsored by Highmark Blue Shield. This sponsorship helps to defray program costs and allows us to offer some programs free of charge.