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Forest Bathing at Long Branch Farm and Trails
Program Description: Forest Bathing is a practice of immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature to relieve stress. This guided stroll is an invitation to slow down and awaken the senses, allowing you to quietly take in nature’s gifts.
About the Guides: Ellen Foley and Dave Thaeler are our guides for this program. Ellen Foley is a Forest Therapy Guide certified with The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. Ellen’s experiences finding solace in nature inspire her to guide others in mindfully walking through and connecting with the natural world. Dave Thaeler is a retired teacher. He likes how going on a forest bathing walk in a group has a way of deepening the experience for the individual.
What to Expect: This walk will take place entirely outdoors on mostly flat trails; no steps or creek crossings involved. Forest bathing experiences follow a standard sequence that includes quiet, slow, attentive walking, guided sensory experiences, individual mindful time, opportunities for group sharing, and a closing tea ceremony using foraged ingredients. We’ll be walking, wandering, standing, and optionally sitting on the ground.
How to Dress: We will be out on the trails and moving slowly. Please dress in layers to ensure proper warmth and comfort. This program runs rain or shine.
What to Bring: The guides will provide sit-upons. You are welcome to carry your own lightweight camp chair.
Where to Meet: Registered program participants should look at specific program dates for program location.
Note: Participants should be prepared to arrive early (10 minutes early recommended). The facilitator will head out on the trail promptly at 10 minutes after posted program start time. If you have never been to the Long Branch Farm and Trails location, please plan to leave plenty of extra time to allow you to find the site, park, use restrooms, etc. Forest bathing is a sequential program – late arrivals cannot be inserted into the program.
Cost: Program fees include daily admission.
