What is Forest bathing?
- An evidence-based wellness practice that began in Japan in the early 1980's, now a growing movement worldwide
- "Forest bathing" is a translation of the Japanese term shinrin-yoku; you may also hear it referred to as "forest therapy"
- A slow and gentle experience during which your guide will offer a series of invitations to reconnect you with the natural world
- Unlike a hike, there is no "destination" and, unlike a naturalist walk, you'll gain knowledge through your senses and self-exploration rather than through the guide's narrative. The focus is on relationship and embodiment; it starts simply with paying attention.
- A body of well-respected research has shown multiple physiological and psychological benefits, from lowered blood pressure, reduced stress, and boosted immune functions to increased focus, clarity, and creativity
YOUR FOREST THERAPY GUIDE
I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. For more than 60 years, my family has lived in the same valley in which I now guide.
The early part of my career was spent in the professional theatre on the US mainland; later, back on O‘ahu, in marketing and communications. But I've always loved the outdoors. An avid hiker, I belong to the Hawaiian Trail & Mountain Club and have trekked in the Grand Canyon, the Pacific Northwest, Provence (France), and the Kumano Kodo and Nakasendo trails of Japan. While in Japan, I toured the birthplace of Shinrin-yoku, the Akasawa Natural Recreational Forest, and the Okutama Forest Therapy Base.
I received my forest therapy guide training and certification from the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy Guides & Programs and have now guided more than 400 walks. I am also certified in Wilderness First Aid (WFA), a Certified Forest Therapy Trail Consultant, and a consultant for the global network Wellbeing Inspired by Nature to bring a holistic approach to workplace wellness through nature connection.
I look forward to meeting you and introducing you to the forest and to forest bathing. By the way, I'm up-to-date with my COVID-19 vaccines.
Aloha,
Phyllis
(she/her/hers)
The early part of my career was spent in the professional theatre on the US mainland; later, back on O‘ahu, in marketing and communications. But I've always loved the outdoors. An avid hiker, I belong to the Hawaiian Trail & Mountain Club and have trekked in the Grand Canyon, the Pacific Northwest, Provence (France), and the Kumano Kodo and Nakasendo trails of Japan. While in Japan, I toured the birthplace of Shinrin-yoku, the Akasawa Natural Recreational Forest, and the Okutama Forest Therapy Base.
I received my forest therapy guide training and certification from the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy Guides & Programs and have now guided more than 400 walks. I am also certified in Wilderness First Aid (WFA), a Certified Forest Therapy Trail Consultant, and a consultant for the global network Wellbeing Inspired by Nature to bring a holistic approach to workplace wellness through nature connection.
I look forward to meeting you and introducing you to the forest and to forest bathing. By the way, I'm up-to-date with my COVID-19 vaccines.
Aloha,
Phyllis
(she/her/hers)
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This was an incredible experience! The Lyon Arboretum is stunning and Phyllis was the most amazing guide. I’ve done forest bathing on my own, but the presence of a gentle guiding voice to keep you focused and in-the-moment greatly enhances the experience. I felt like all of my senses were in overdrive (in a good way). After our time in the forest, I was so calm and present and soft, and that feeling stuck for the rest of the day. Highly recommended for forest enthusiasts and anyone who wants to (or needs to) learn to slow down. -- Gina, Oregon
When I hike, I love being out in nature, but to be honest, I don't really absorb much of what is going on around me. I'm more fixed on my goal. Forest bathing is a totally different experience and much healthier for your mind and spirit! With Phyllis there to guide you, you will see everything around you in a new way. It was an amazing, uplifting experience and truly something you should try!!! -- Crysttal, O‘ahu
