Earth Day Intro to Forest Bathing Experience and Talk with Nadine Mazzola
Join certified forest therapy guide and award-winning author, Nadine Mazzola, for a mini forest bathing experience right from your own home, followed by a talk about the popular practice of forest bathing.
“Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku—a term originating in Japan in 1982- emphasizes immersive experiences in forests, engaging all senses intentionally. It’s structured as a program with specific health goals, tailored to individual needs, and involves a deliberate and mindful connection with nature to unlock its therapeutic benefits. In a guided 15- or 30-minute practice, participants are led through exercises to mindfully experience [Nature], encouraging awareness of the environment—to hear birdsong, touch soil and trees, take deep breaths and emotionally connect to nature. Such a structured walk can provide a more holistic, deeper experience with anticipated outcomes than more casual forays.” —Dr. Guangyu Wang, professor at UBC’s department of forest resources management and director of the Multidisciplinary Institute of Natural Therapy (MINT)
Following the experiential segment, the Talk will cover topics such as:
- The history of the practice of Forest Bathing
- Wellness naturally: Understanding the wellness and health benefits for both humans and the land
- How the practice is different than a walk in the woods
- How the practice can help repair our broken relationships with Nature
- The accessibility of forest bathing in urban areas.
Upon registering you will receive a Zoom link for the event.
What to expect for the Experiential Segment:
The experiential segment will last approximately 20-25 minutes. Guided forest bathing is a gentle and relaxing practice that restores our connection with ourselves and our relationship to place. Take time out for yourself, for this very special Earth Day opportunity to connect with others virtually and experience forest bathing from wherever you are. Awaken the joy and awe of nature and within. This experience will consist of a series of gentle activities (invitations) that allow participants to use their 5-senses to engage with nature from inside or outside. See additional details below.
Join outside from a nearby natural area, backyard, porch or even from inside. Consider where you might want to be for this in advance and make sure your device works where you plan to be. JOIN VIA ZOOM OR PHONE You are welcome to join via zoom or dial in using your phone for this portion of the event. Nadine will give participants time to switch devices if they choose to. A zoom link and phone number will be emailed to you when you register.
Click here for more information on forest bathing!
Click here to register!
Cost: FREE There is no fee to attend this event. If you can afford to make a donation to Earth Day Boston.org please consider that. PWYC (pay what you can) Any amount is appreciated. https://earthday2020boston.giv.sh/70f6
About Nadine Mazzola, Certified Forest Therapy Guide, Award-Winning Author
Nadine Mazzola (she/her) is a certified forest therapy guide and award-winning author of “Forest Bathing with Your Dog”. She guides forest bathing programs regularly in the Metro West Boston area. She is also a senior trainer and advisor for the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. She has shared her signature, holistic, heart-centered style of teaching with hundreds of students and participants, and is known for creating a supportive environment within each class for learning, exploring, creating, and playing. A breast cancer survivor herself, Nadine often works with groups affected by cancer at the Virginia Thurston Healing Garden in Harvard, MA. Nadine brings a depth of life experience bridging Nature, expressive arts, and somatics. Learn more about Nadine on her website nenft.com.
Connect with Nadine on LinkedIn, or follow her on Facebook or Instagram.