Here is an excerpt from Ontario Parks:

“Forest bathing, forest therapy, or Shinrin-yoku, was developed in Japan in the 1980s.

The idea is that when humans spend time in a natural setting, especially under the canopy of a forest, they experience rejuvenating benefits to the mind, body and spirit.

This is not a novel concept. Traditionally people sought the restorative benefits of the forest as part of their everyday life.”

Check out what these sources have to say about forest bathing.

1. Time Magazine,
2. National Geographic,
3. Association of Nature & Forest Therapy.

While you won’t be immersed in a forest for this session, Emma Rooney will be guiding you through a sensory meditation with the principles of forest bathing — all from the urban oasis of 401 Richmonds rooftop garden.

Emma Rooney is a certified forest therapy guide with the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with many innovative urban organizations, from the High Park Children’s Garden to Greenest City in Parkdale and Ecosource in Mississauga. As a community programmer, I’ve enjoyed using my skills to support diverse populations and age groups with getting involved in important environmental and social justice issues. I’m the horticultural therapy practitioner at Copernicus Lodge Long-Term Care and a volunteer at the High Park Nature Centre. I’m also a certified forest therapy guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.”

She is the founder of Blooming Caravan, an organization built on the idea that aging at home can be graceful, playful, and meaningful. Explore the experiences offered by Blooming Caravan here.