Welcome to Reciprocal Roots

Why the Forest?

Our bond with nature and the forest dates back to the dawn of humanity. Throughout over 99% of our history, humans have lived in close harmony with the natural world. Modern life has diverted many of us from this bond, which can result in a disconnect from the natural environment, ourselves, and each other. Forest Therapy provides one opportunity to re-establish that relationship with the more-than-human world, ourselves, and one another.

History of Forest Therapy

Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, began in the 1980s in Japan as a government health initiative to combat tech-era stress, encouraging people to connect with forests for well-being, blending ancient reverence for nature with scientific studies on stress reduction via forest phytoncides and mindfulness, later formalized globally by groups like the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT).

Forest therapy Benefits

Benefits: Forest therapy has many possible and proven benefits. It has been show shown to increase overall wellness and:

• Reduce stress and cortisol

• Improve mood and mental clarity

• Support immune system

• Improve sleep

• Reduce anxiety and depression

Whether you are an avid outdoor person, someone who doesn't spend much time in nature or somewhere in between, forest therapy offers a unique experience. Forest therapy provides and opportunity to slow-down, reconnect with ourselves, nature and others.

Walks typically cover about 1 mile, with intervals for rest and stillness, and can be adjusted to accommodate most mobility levels. Throughout the walk, you will be guided through a series of invitations to foster connection through the senses, as well as group sharing circles.

Please reach out with any questions or concerns.

What to expect

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