Forest Therapy

A wooden bridge over a river, leading to a trail into the forest

Slow down. Notice More. Reconnect.

What is Forest Therapy?

Forest Therapy is a guided, mindful experience that invites you to deepen your relationship with nature through sensory awareness, reflection, and presence.

There is no destination.

No fitness requirement.

No expectation.

Only an invitation to slow down.

rays of sunshine in a dense forest

Benefits

  • Reduced stress
  • Improved mood
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Greater creativity
  • Improved sleep
  • Immune support
  • Mental clarity
  • Connection

What Happens During a Walk?

Dragonfly hovering with blue sky and a green tree in the background
Yellow flowers growing near a rock with a green hillside in the background
diverse group of people sitting in a circle in the forest

Walk Locations

Jennings Memorial Park (Northend)

Stroll through vibrant gardens, pause beside a peaceful pond, and wander beneath the forest canopy as you reconnect with the rhythms of the natural world.

Saint Edwards State Park (Eastside)

Nestled along the shores of Lake Washington, sits peaceful forested trails, towering evergreens, and scenic waterfront views, an inviting setting to slow down, reconnect with nature, and simply be present.

Washington Park Arboretum (Seattle)

A lush urban oasis in the heart of Seattle, offering winding trails, diverse plant collections, and peaceful natural spaces perfect for slowing down and reconnecting with nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate?

Guided Forest Therapy walks are open to most adults and are designed to be slow, gentle, and accessible. They are especially well-suited for those looking to reduce stress, reconnect with nature, navigate life transitions, or simply spend intentional time outdoors. While the pace is easy, participants should be comfortable walking short distances on uneven natural trails and standing for brief periods. If you have mobility concerns or accessibility needs, please reach out before registering so we can discuss whether a particular walk is a good fit for you.

What should I bring?

Dress comfortably for the weather and wear sturdy walking shoes suitable for natural trails. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle, a light jacket or rain layer if needed, and anything you need to feel comfortable outdoors. Lightweight folding stools will be provided for anyone who would like a seat during our pauses and invitations, so there’s no need to bring your own. The goal is to be comfortable, so you can relax, slow down, and fully enjoy your time in nature.

When will a walk be cancelled?

Forest therapy walks are held rain or shine, but may be cancelled or rescheduled in the event of severe or potentially dangerous weather, unsafe trail conditions, or if fewer than three participants are registered. If a walk is cancelled, registered participants will be notified as soon as possible and will be provided with a voucher for a future walk.

What if it rains?

A little rain is often part of the magic of being outdoors in the Pacific Northwest. Forest Therapy walks are held rain or shine, so we encourage you to dress comfortably in weather-appropriate layers and waterproof footwear.

How long are the walks?

Most Guided Forest Therapy walks last approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. The exact duration can vary depending on the pace of the group, the amount of time spent with each invitation, and the level of sharing during the closing tea ceremony. We encourage you to plan for the full 2.5 hours so you can relax and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

What if I need to cancel?

If you need to cancel your reservation, please provide at least 48 hours’ notice to receive a full refund or to reschedule your walk. Cancellations made with less than 48 hours’ notice are generally non-refundable, as spaces are limited and reserved specifically for each participant. If an unexpected emergency arises, please contact us—we’ll do our best to work with you.

Ready to join us on a walk?