Winter Solstice forest bathing taster - Toohey Forest

Forest bathing is a mindful way to connect with nature, support your health and wellbeing, and wash away the stresses of the modern world — no water necessary!

Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, it is simple and powerful . It involves slowing down, and immersing yourself in the atmosphere of nature in a conscious and contemplative way. You do this by awakening your senses, and tuning into what you can see, hear, feel, taste and smell.

Led by ANFT certified Nature and Forest Therapy guide Monique Ross, this practice can help you unwind and recharge, renew a childlike sense of wonder about the world, make you more grounded and present, and deepen your relationship with yourself and those around you.

This is a shorter 60-minute 'taster' session, held as the sun goes down on the Winter Solstice.

Where

This small group walk takes place at the beautiful Toohey Forest in Brisbane/Meanjin, on Jagera country. This is the perfect place to bask in the beauty of the bush!

Ample parking is available on site.

Details of where to meet on the day will be provided 72 hours prior to the event via email. Please ensure you use your correct email address when booking!

What to expect

This event has a maximum of 8 participants, and is suitable for people 12 years and over.

There is no literal bathing! You will not get wet.

Your certified guide, Monique Ross, will lead you through a guided relaxation to help you to switch off and slow down. She will then offer 'invitations' for how you might like to engage with the space in a sensory way.

It is a very gentle experience that is intentionally slow; you can expect to travel no further than 2kms over the entire course of the walk.

The path should be manageable for most fitness levels. Our path includes gravel trail, concrete and a wooden walkway. You can expect to also walk over some slightly uneven rocky ground. It is wheelchair accessible.

If you have any accessibility or mobility concerns, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

Your Guide

Monique Ross is an experienced certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, who trained with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. She is the founder of Heartwood Nature Bathing.

She is also a journalist, author, and cat-mum.

Monique has up-to-date certifications in Remote and Wilderness Area First Aid, and full public liability insurance. All of the appropriate council permits have been secured.

What to bring

• A bottle of water
• A torch (or fully charged phone for light)
• A small cushion to sit on if you do not want to sit directly on the ground. (A pillowcase works really well, too!)
• A bag or backpack to store your keys and personal items
• An open heart

Any questions?

Get in touch - hello@heartwoodnaturebathing

Heartwood looks forward to sharing moments of connection in nature together with you.

You are welcome, exactly as you are.