A Guided Forest Therapy Walk  (Shinrin-yoku) in the Royal National Park

Guided Forest Therapy, Forest Bathing and Nature Connection Walks

Alex Musgrove

Overwhelmed with life’s pressures? Want to slow down and reconnect with nature? For a unique experience, join a guided forest therapy walk.

Royal National Park, Audley Visitors Centre, Lady Carrington Drive

Forest Therapy in the Royal National Park, Sydney

Forest Therapy is guided immersion in nature that helps us to slow down, be more mindful of the present moment  and re-ignites our connection with nature.

Looking for an experience to connect with the natural world? Join a guided Forest Therapy walk with a local certified guide through Sydney’s beautiful Royal National Park.A Forest Therapy walk encourages you to take time out, to be outside, to slow down, and to connect with the calming influence of nature. F﻿orest Therapy comes from the Japanese public health practice of Shinrin-yoku. It translates as forest bathing and it means to bathe or immerse ourselves in the atmosphere of the forest.As a certified Forest Therapy Guide I start our walk in a slow and deliberate way. The carefully selected trail aids in slowing our biorhythms to fall into step with nature. During the walk, I invite you to participate in a complementary blend of creative, physical and sensory activities taking our cues direct from nature. These activities provide gateways for us to be present, open and alert to the environment. As the Guide, we work in partnership with nature, by opening the door to this experience, and taping into the natural medicine that forests’ provide. This interaction allows us to receive her healing influence as we slow down in her company, and we re-set our brains and biorhythms to the natural world.A﻿t the conclusion of the walk we share a Japanese inspired tea ceremony and refreshments.The walk is suitable to anyone over the age of 12 years. Participants should be able to walk at a slow pace, and mostly we go over gentle terrain. Moderate fitness levels are required. There is some sitting on the ground.Things to bring on a walkA small day pack with water, snacks, mask (optional) sunblock, sanitiser, insect repellent and personal medications with you is recommended, for the trail. Dress appropriately for the weather, wearing a waterproof outer layer, and closed, sturdy shoes. Don’t forget to bring a hat.If you want to sit on the ground feel free to bring something to sit on, a light fold up stool, chair, waterproof barrier, or blanket. I suggest a small back pack as you will want your hands free to fully engage in nature.The event will go ahead even in rainy weather. If we need to cancel due to inclement weather or notifications from council or parks authorities, you will be notified on the morning by 8:00 am.The meeting place is outside the Visitors Centre at Audley, Royal National Park.

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