Forest Bathing with Aimee Vandemark
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a Guide to go for a walk in the woods?
Seeking a relationship with the natural world has been practiced by most cultures throughout the world, so it may seem like "can't I just go for a walk in the woods?". Guides can make it easier for many to explore freely, to unplug, to let go of an agenda. You don’t need a guide to have a purposeful encounter in nature but many find the experience of being guided in this way to be supportive, impacting and sometimes even transformational.
How is Forest Therapy different from a hike? Or a nature walk?
Forest Therapy is different from a hike in that you may not actually walk that far, on average most walks are a mile or less. And Forest Therapy is different from a nature walk in that there is not a goal to identify flora or fauna, in fact there isn't a true goal except to be open and curious about the nature your are in at that moment. Forest Therapy is a relational practice that brings people into deeper intimacy with natural places.
What is the difference between Forest Bathing and Forest Therapy?
Forest Therapy is a practice built upon the principles of the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which literally translates to "forest bathing". Forest Bathing simply means fully taking in the forest's atmosphere. Forest Therapy adds a relational piece to the practice and asks not only "what do you get from the forest?" but "what does the forest get from you?"
What if it rains or the weather is "bad"?
As a guide it will be my responsibility to be aware of the weather on the day (and hours) leading up to a walk. While I will not hesitate to cancel and reschedule a walk in the event of unsafe weather (including but not limited to heat advisories, thunderstorms, tornado warnings, excessive winds, sleet/ice). I also know that some of the loveliest walks can still be had in rain, light snow, or on a foggy day.
What is the fitness level needed to go on a Forest Therapy walk?
You can be of any fitness level or ability and still enjoy a forest therapy walk! Forest Therapy walks can be tailored to each individual's needs, ability, and fitness to allow the forest be an accessible partner for all.