Naturally Connected- Forest Therapy in Practice
Details:
11:00 – 11:50 pm
6th of December
Room: Meet at the Marque/Outside
There is limited capacity for this session.
Dr Liz Cyarto
Originating from Japan in the 1980s, shinrin-yoku, or Forest Therapy, is a preventive health practice that involves being present and being immersed in nature. Over two or three hours, participants are slowly guided in sensory and/or creative activities.
Forest Therapy is gaining global acclaim as an evidence-based, cost-effective and natural remedy. It bolsters mental and physical health by reducing stress levels, regulating heart rate and blood pressure, boosting the immune system and elevating mood. 2500+ research studies support the physical and mental health benefits of this Japanese-inspired practice. Forest Therapy centres and trails have been established in Japan and South Korea. Doctors in New Zealand give patients “green prescriptions” to spend time in nature.
Feedback collected at the end of walks attests to the acute mental health benefits of Forest Therapy, with people feeling “tranquil”, “more focused, inspired”, “rejuvenated”, “relaxed” and “more peaceful, grounded and present”. Not only does it promote mental and emotional wellbeing, but Forest Therapy also fosters a sense of community and belonging. Many participants enjoyed the “companionship” of others in a natural setting and “meeting new people”.
Dr Liz will introduce participants to the practice of Forest Therapy, including its development, research on the benefits of nature immersion and the components of a typical guided Forest Therapy walk. Come experience the “medicine of nature”.
This workshop complements the Naturally Connected – Introduction to Forest Therapy presentation by Dr Liz Cyarto. Participants will then be guided Liz to experience elements of a Forest Therapy walk on the grounds of Federation University.
About the Presenter
Dr Liz Cyarto is a health expert who continually initiates innovative wellbeing programs to change people’s lives for the better. She is the first certified Forest Therapy Guide in Hobsons Bay City Council. Her guided Forest Therapy walks improve social connections and deepen appreciation of western Melbourne’s natural beauty and stewardship.
