It’s nerve-wracking not knowing what to expect when you are doing something for the first time!

We get that.

If there is one thing we hope to convey, it’s that our forest therapy walks (and any of our programs) are a safe place for you to show up just as you are. There is no-one to impress and no need to perform. There is no way to be “good” at forest therapy, so whether it’s your first or fiftieth walk; we’re all on level ground here.

This is an extremely open practice and there isn’t a right or wrong way to do it.

But for those with brains like ours that REALLY need a bit more information ahead of time, here’s what you can expect:

1. You’ll arrive at the location hopefully 15 minutes before start time and get settled. Use the restroom, apply bug spray and sunscreen if needed, meet your guide and any other participants, etc.

2. The walk will begin with an introduction that will explain in more detail the format of the walk, information about the land, and anything else that might be important to know.

3. You will be guided in a series of invitations that will allow you to wake up your senses and immerse yourself in nature. All invitations are optional and open to your own interpretation! After each invitation we will gather in a circle where participants have the opportunity to share something they’re noticing with the group. Sharing can be done through words in any language, song, movement, or any other form of expression that feels right. Silence is always an acceptable way to share as well!

4. During the walk, we generally encourage participants to refrain from conversation with the guide or other participants and limit speaking to the designated sharing circles. This can be hard and there is no judgment if you catch yourself chatting! We will gently remind you as needed. If there are children participating in the walk we will likely approach this a little differently, so don’t worry if you’re thinking “My kid could NEVER” (because really, no kid could, ever!)

5. The actual “walk” will be no more than one mile in total. It will likely be significantly less than that. We are going to be moving VERY slowly. Walks are generally 2.5-3 hours but shorter or longer walks may be offered at times. The length of your walk will be clearly stated when you sign up and we will adhere to those times carefully; so you don’t have to worry about keeping track of time.

6. To conclude the walk we will usually share tea and snacks; though on occasion we may instead share a closing poem or reading. There will always be some way to mark the end of the walk and close out our time together.

We will send you a more detailed list when you sign up for your walk but here are some general ideas:

The most important consideration when planning what to bring on a walk is your comfort. Plan to dress with layers, which will vary depending on the season and weather forecast. Rain protection is essential if the forecast appears unsettled.

A sit pad of some sort is nice to have, especially if the ground might be cold or wet. This can be anything from a Crazy-Creek style chair or backpacking sit pad to a folded up towel or foam garden kneeler.

If getting down to sit on the ground and standing back up multiple times over a few hours is uncomfortable for you, a small camp chair or stool is great to bring (let us know if you would like one provided for you!)

A water bottle is important, particularly in the summer. Feel free to bring yourself any snacks you might need during this time. We will likely provide tea and a light snack at the end of the walk but you know your body and we want to ensure you are comfortable and safe.

A backpack is great to have to carry your extra layers, water, and whatever you’d like to sit on.

Those are the essentials!

Please do your best to communicate if you are going to be late or not able to attend one of our walks or other programs.

If you are attending a public walk, we will be commencing promptly at the start time. We ask that you arrive at least 15 minutes early to give yourself plenty of time to get settled and make sure you don’t get left behind!

Accessibility is one of our core values, and it would be our pleasure to make nature therapy accessible and supportive for you or your child, client, student, or loved one.

When booking private forest therapy walks, we can tailor the experience for any participant’s unique needs. We will work with you to ensure a safe and supportive experience based on your mobility, communication, sensory needs, comfort level with the outdoors, and any other concerns you may have.

If you are interested in joining us for a community walk or other public activity, just reach out before booking so we can determine the best way to support your participation!

Lastly, if getting outdoors itself isn’t an option for ANY reason, our virtual “walks” can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home or even bed. We’re serious! Virtual walks can be an incredible experience and nature is all around us, even indoors :)

Please reach out if finances are standing in the way of your ability to participate in one of our programs. We accept sliding scale payments and are actively working on setting up a mutual aid fund to ensure anyone who wants to access nature therapy is able to do so.

Reach out through our contact form or email connect@rootandwildnature.com with any questions or concerns. We are firm believers that there are no bad questions, and want you to feel equipped with all the knowledge and information you need!