forest bathing+nature therapy
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing is simply moving through and being with the forest or any natural setting in a meaningful way with the intention of being present- to what we can see, smell, hear, taste and feel.
When forest bathing, the intention is to slow down, to notice, to feel, to be.
The formal practice known as Shinrin-yoku was developed in Japan as a nature based health intervention to alleviate the impact of constant stress modern urban life creates.
Research shows that experiences of awe—those moments where something feels vast, beautiful, or quietly meaningful—have real, measurable effects on the body and mind. Awe has been linked to reduced stress and inflammation, improved mood, increased creativity, and a greater sense of connection and perspective. It helps shift us out of survival mode and into a more open, regulated state.
Forest bathing is one of the most accessible ways to experience this.
During our walks, we slow down, engage the senses, and gently guide your attention toward the small details and subtle beauty that are easy to miss in everyday life. This isn’t about hiking, achieving, or “doing it right.” It’s about noticing—light through the trees, texture under your feet, the feeling of being in your body.
As your nervous system settles, something shifts.
YOU BEGIN TO FEEL MORE LIKE YOURSELF AGAIN…..
There’s also something powerful that happens in a group setting. Studies show that awe and wonder increase feelings of belonging and reduce self-focused stress. When we share space in this slower, more present way, connection happens naturally—without pressure, performance, or small talk
You don’t need to be outdoorsy. You don’t need to be in a certain mindset. You just have to show up.
THE FOREST WILL TAKE CARE OF THE REST…..
Current Forest Bathing Programs
Wonder
Walks
a gentle, midweek reset—designed to help you reconnect with yourself, with nature, and with others in a way that feels simple and doable taking place at a variety of Knoxville parks and greenspaces.
Forest Bathing workshops at
ijams nature center
For the past 4 years we’ve been honored to partner with Ijams to offer monthly forest bathing programs in the quiet sanctuary of the Miller Homesite.
join us for a peaceful couple of hours wandering this lesser known naturescape often unavailable to the public.
find and register for upcoming programs here
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