Imagine stepping into a quiet forest. The air is cool and crisp, filled with the earthy smell of pine and soil. Your senses come alive as you walk slowly, noticing the subtle rustling of leaves, the gentle breeze, and the distant sound of birdsong. This isn’t just a hike—it’s something deeper. This is forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku. And more people than ever are signing up for guided forest bathing tours to fully experience the calming, restorative power of nature.

As a certified forest therapy guide, I’ve led many groups into the woods, and I’ve seen firsthand how transformative the experience can be. Whether you’re looking for stress relief, emotional healing, or just a way to reconnect with nature, guided forest bathing tours offer a uniquely enriching experience. Here’s why these tours are gaining popularity, and what you can expect if you decide to give one a try.

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice that emerged in the 1980s. The idea is simple: spending mindful, intentional time in nature can have profound benefits for your physical and mental health. Unlike hiking or other outdoor activities, forest bathing is not about covering miles or reaching a destination. It’s about slowing down, immersing yourself in the natural world, and engaging all your senses.

I often describe it to first-timers as “an invitation to experience the forest in a completely different way.” You’re not just walking through it; you’re being in it, noticing every detail, every sound, and every scent. As a guide, my job is to create a safe space for people to let go of the rush of daily life and truly connect with the environment around them.

Why Guided Forest Bathing is Gaining Popularity

1. Professional Guidance for a Deeper Experience

While it’s true that anyone can take a quiet walk in the woods, having a certified guide makes a big difference. As guides, we’re trained to lead you through exercises and practices that heighten your awareness and help you fully engage with the forest. We help you slow down and notice the little things—like the texture of moss on a tree, the way light filters through the leaves, or the subtle shift in the wind.

I remember one participant, a corporate executive, telling me after a session, “I’ve hiked for years, but I’ve never experienced the forest like this before.” That’s the magic of guided forest bathing—by having someone gently lead you through the process, you’ll experience the woods in a way you may never have thought possible.

2. Structure and Support for Busy People

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, many of us have forgotten how to be in nature. A guided session provides the structure and support needed to fully unwind. For people who are new to the concept of forest therapy—or for those who struggle to relax on their own—a guided experience offers a gentle introduction.

As someone who leads these sessions, I often find that my role is to give participants permission to slow down. There’s no rush, no agenda. It’s about being fully present. I guide the group through a series of invitations—these are simple prompts, like listening to the sounds around you or feeling the texture of a tree bark. By the end of the session, even the most high-strung participants feel more grounded and at peace.

3. Connection with Nature and Others

Guided forest bathing tours often attract like-minded individuals who share a love for nature. In group sessions, there’s a beautiful sense of connection—not only to the forest but also to fellow participants. As the guide, I create moments of silence, but I also encourage sharing at the end of the session. Many people find that the reflections of others deepen their own experience.

I’ll never forget one group session where, after walking in silence on an invitation, a participant shared how much peace they felt for the first time since taking on a new, fast paced, stressful job. Another person responded, sharing their own story of healing through nature. These moments of vulnerability and connection remind me of the power of forest therapy—not just as a personal experience but as a collective one.

What to Expect from a Guided Forest Bathing Tour

So, what exactly happens on a guided forest therapy tour? Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

1. Sensory Engagement

Guided tours are all about awakening your senses. You’ll be invited to notice the smell of the forest, the sound of the birds, the feel of the wind on your skin, and the colors around you. These invitations help you slow down and become present in the moment. A lot of people are surprised by how much they notice once they stop to really look and listen.

2. Mindfulness Practices

A good portion of a guided session involves mindfulness. This can include breathing exercises, gentle walking, or standing still and observing the surroundings. I usually introduce a few mindfulness techniques throughout the tour, encouraging participants to tune into their bodies and their surroundings.

For example, I might ask you to close your eyes and focus solely on the sound of the wind moving through the trees. Or I might lead the group in a “sit spot” exercise, where you find a quiet place to sit and simply be still for 15-20 minutes. It’s amazing what you can observe when you let the forest come to you, rather than actively seeking out sights and sounds.

3. Reflection and Sharing

At the end of most guided forest bathing sessions, there’s time for reflection. This might be a quiet moment to journal or it might involve group sharing. I always remind participants that sharing is optional—there’s no pressure—but many people find that verbalizing their experience helps them process it more fully.

The Benefits of a Guided Tour

1. Deeper Immersion in Nature

One of the biggest benefits of a guided forest bathing tour is the deeper level of immersion. A guide helps you notice things you might overlook on your own—like the subtle differences in the texture of tree bark or the many shades of green in the forest canopy. This level of attention and care can make the experience more fulfilling.

2. Tailored Experience

As a guide, I tailor each session to the environment and the participants. Whether it’s a large forest or a small urban park, I create an experience that fits the surroundings. I also adjust the pace and activities based on the group’s energy and needs. If someone wants more reflection time, we can pause. If the group feels energized, we might explore more of the forest.

3. Personal Growth and Healing

Many people come to forest bathing for healing, whether it’s emotional, mental, or physical. Guided sessions are designed to create a safe space for personal growth and healing. Nature has an incredible way of helping us release tension, reflect on life’s challenges, and find a sense of peace.

How to Choose the Right Guided Forest Bathing Experience

When choosing a guided forest bathing experience, it’s important to consider a few key factors:

- Certified Guides: Look for guides who are certified by an accredited organization, such as the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT). Certification ensures that the guide has received proper training in forest therapy practices.

- Group Size: Decide whether you’d prefer a private session or a group tour. Both have their benefits. Group tours foster connection, while private sessions offer more personalization. I also offer the unique experience of a remote guided walk. It can be done from home or any location you choose via a Zoom call.

- Location: The guide will choose a location that meets a specific criteria that is suitable for a safe and rewarding experience . Whether it’s a remote forest or an urban park, the setting should feel comfortable and inspiring.

Preparing for Your First Guided Forest Bathing Tour

Here are a few tips to prepare for your first session:

- What to Bring: Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Bring water, a journal, and an open mind.

- Set an Intention: Before you go, think about what you’d like to get out of the experience—whether it’s relaxation, healing, or a deeper connection to nature.

- Expect the Unexpected: Nature is unpredictable. Embrace whatever comes your way, whether it’s a sudden rain shower or an unexpected encounter with wildlife.

---

Conclusion: Why You Should Try a Guided Forest Bathing Tour

Guided forest bathing tours offer a rich, meaningful way to connect with nature and yourself. Whether you’re looking for stress relief, emotional healing, or just a break from the hustle of daily life, forest therapy provides a space for deep relaxation and personal growth.

So why not give it a try? I am Mark Bucha, and I am a certified forest therapy guide. I received my certification through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT).

Book a guided walk and immerse yourself in the calming embrace of the forest. You might be surprised at the peace and clarity that awaits you.

Want to try a forest bathing walk? Contact me to schedule a remote or in person experience.

BOOK NOW

Learn more www.intothewildwalks.net

Instagram

Facebook