Spring Forest Bathing: shinrin-yoku

Experience the energy of springtime and connect to nature. Slowly walk and pause among the trees. Observe the budding plants, listen to the birds, and breathe the fresh air. Give yourself this time to slow down, de-stress and be guided through a series of sensory invitations. A hot, locally foraged tea will be served.

Duncan grew up on the beautiful shores of Lake Champlain in rural Vermont where his deep connection to Nature was formed. After receiving Nature & Forest Therapy Guide Certification from the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy Guides and Programs, he began his official practice in New York City by guiding the first Forest Bathing groups through the Loch Trail in Central Park. After creating NYC’s first Shinrin-Yoku trail on Randall’s Island, he moved back to Vermont where he now hosts walks throughout the state through his outfit, Nature Connection Guide.

What is forest bathing?

Forest Bathing is a research-based practice for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. The decades-old practice originated in Japan and is known as shinrin-yoku, which literally translates to “taking in the forest” or “forest bathing”. Read more about the practice in our interview with Duncan Murdoch.