A Note From Kathryn...

Hi! I’m Kathryn Fidati.

Unsurprisingly, I get many questions and a few comments when I share with people that I’m a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide: “What’s that?  You’re a therapist? Why do that outside? I don’t really need therapy, thanks.” When I share that Forest Therapy is also often referred to as Forest Bathing even more questions arise: “What’s that? A bath in the forest? Do I need a towel? How does that work?”

Forest bathing actually refers to soaking in the atmosphere of the Forest, or any natural place really, much like sitting in the sunshine can be called sunbathing. It is an English translation of the Japanese term Shinrin-Yoku which refers to the practice of spending time in Nature for the healing benefits that it offers. Guided Forest Bathing is simply a practice of interacting with the natural world through our senses to bring our awareness into the present moment, slow down, and reconnect to Nature.

It is almost easier to describe Forest Bathing for what it is not. It is not hiking for physical exercise, an informative naturalist walk, a search for photographic subjects, or a birding walk, though these are also all enjoyable and valid ways to spend time in Nature! The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), through which I’m certified, has a saying:

“The forest is the therapist; the guide opens the door.”

As a guide, I offer simple invitations or suggestions that call our attention to our senses (think sight, smell, touch…) to fully experience Nature wherever we are. This becomes a relational practice, interacting in reciprocity with the landscape and opening our senses to cultivate awareness, presence, and connection to place. This can deepen our relationship to the Land, ourselves, and each other. We spend time walking, resting, and reflecting on our experiences. This gentle trauma-informed experience has been shown through research to have many therapeutic effects:

● Boosts the immune system, specifically natural killer (NK) cells

● Normalizes heart rate and blood pressure

● Reduces anxiety and stress, Decreases cortisol levels

● Elevates mood and energy

● Enhances emotional intelligence and creativity

● Increases cognitive focus and memory

● Reduces inflammation and risk of cardiovascular disease

● Improves sleep

Though we can and often do have these experiences on our own, having a guide can assist the process by holding a safe container and relieving you, the participant, from the pressure of keeping track of time, decision making, or thinking about the next moment. A guide sets the pace, encouraging a downshift from our often hurried, fast-paced thinking and busy-ness. Just as one might turn to a personal trainer, yoga instructor, or walking group, many find being guided in Forest Therapy to be deeply supportive. And just like exercise or yoga, Forest Bathing is a practice that can be deepened by returning again and again, through different seasons.

Now, more than ever, we benefit from cultivating a relationship with Nature as much as Nature benefits from our focused attention. As Jacques-Yves Cousteau has stated, “People protect what they love,” and love of the Land happens through relationships. Come join us to experience Guided Forest Bathing. And no, no need to bring your towel!

I am a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and a former Interpretive Naturalist and canoe guide. She holds these additional certifications: Georgia Master Naturalist, Certified Interpretive Guide, Wilderness First Aid/CPR, PT, LMT.