Forest Bathing Experiences

Forest Bathing (also known as the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku) includes a slow walk, invitations for stillness and exploration, and sharing with others in the group.

The growing body of scientific knowledge demonstrates the benefits of spending time in nature, as a wellness practice, and as an effective way to manage stress.

This story on NPR about Forest Bathing is GREAT! CLICK HERE to listen.

CLICK HERE to listen to the talk and to experience a sample of Forest Bathing I shared with HAWK in Matthews.

Join me on this journey with the more-than-human world to unplug, slow down, and reconnect with yourself and the natural world around you.

FINAL 2024 Date

Juneberry Ridge in Norwood, North Carolina

December 14th, 1 – 4pm

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Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

November 16th, and December 19th, 9am – Noon

2025 Dates to be announced in January

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Latta Nature Preserve (Huntersville, NC)

2025 Dates to be announced in January

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Our time together includes:

• An Introduction: What is Forest Bathing
• A variety of guided Forest Bathing invitations
• Sharing / Listening circles
• Closing Tea Circle

Participants often share that their stress dissolves, confusion lifts, insights awaken — and they take home a renewed sense of connection, meaning and purpose in their lives.

More details:

In the practice of Forest Bathing, participants are guided into nature step-by-step and invited to engage each of their five senses.

Who: appropriate for kids, teens, adults, and seniors.

What: A 3-hour sensory experience of nature. Participants are offered “invitations” to experience nature during the Forest Bathing experience.

When: Any time of day, any weather EXCEPT for thunder/lightening storms.

Where: Any field, park, or nearby nature trail that is mostly flat, fairly quiet, with good parking, and access to a restroom. The experience never covers more than 1 mile over 3 hours.

Why: A slow, purposeful experience to gently and deliberately connect with Nature and ourselves. See additional benefits below.

Scientifically-proven benefits:

• Boosted immune system functioning by inhaling phytoncides, essential oils emitted by trees, plus fungus and other beneficial microscopic particles
• Reduce blood pressure, respiration, and heart rate
• Reduce stress, improve mood, increase energy level & improve sleep
• Increase capacity for empathy and kindness (self and others)
• Increase ability to think strategically (“Executive Thinking”)
• Increase ability to think more creatively (“Original Thoughts”)

Angie Stegall is a born Wayfinder, helping clients explore their wild insides while finding their way back to who they are at their core. She is a Certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides, and has extensive experience taking groups and individual clients out for forest therapy experiences, powerful nature-based coaching sessions, and retreats. Angie’s other certifications include: Martha Beck Certified Wayfinder Life Coach, Certified Sparketype Advisor, IFS-informed Coach, and American Red Cross Wilderness & First Aid/CPR Certification.

Testimonials:

“I think the most impactful part was feeling at one with nature and knowing that I tend to the be the one that sets limits on myself. If I just try, it won’t be as bad as I build it up to be.”

“I’m sleeping better! Prior to the class on Sunday, I had not been sleeping well. Since the class, I have had some of the best sleep that I can remember!”

“Angie – your curiosity and love of nature is infectious. I loved how you guided the forest bathing…you led us in a way that did not overwhelm or surprise me. You acclimated us step-by-step…like dipping our toes in the water and easing our way into a warm and welcoming pool. You beckoned us gently into the woods and awakened a part of my soul that was clouded in the midst of noise.”

“Felt very joyful after our experience. Drove home in a peaceful mode.”