Guided Walk: Forest Therapy

This guided walk is now full- you can still register for our waitlist using the link above.

Are you looking for a way to slow down, ground yourself, and re-kindle your connection with nature? Forest Therapy is a practice that supports health and wellness through guided immersion in forests and parks to promote the well-being of people and a connection with the land.

Inspired by Shinrin-yoku, the Japanese practice of “Forest Bathing,” this practice entails a guided walk through Cornwall Park where participants are offered a series of invitations to slow down, allow the senses to open, and deepen their experience with the natural environment around them.

Registration is essential and numbers are limited. To register for this workshop please use the links above or email info@cornwallpark.co.nz.

To attend our walk you will need to present your My Vaccine Pass on arrival and scan our QR code. Masks are required for the introduction, but not required for the outdoor component of the class if the class remains socially distanced. If you feel more comfortable wearing them the whole time, we support your decision.

This slow walk will take approximately 2 hours and cover 1-2km. Forest therapy is suitable for all ages and physical conditions. Participants should be able to comfortably walk slowly on varied terrain for up to 2km. Please contact us if you have mobility considerations. Participants should dress for the weather and wear good walking shoes. Forest therapy is a slow practice, so wearing or bringing extra layers is encouraged.

Meet at Huia Lodge Discovery Hub.

Price: FREE

About your guide

Geoff Handsfield is a certified forest therapy guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. Originally from the United States, he has been living in Aotearoa New Zealand for 7 years and is an active outdoorsman. Trained as a scientist, Geoff holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering and conducts research on the physiology of muscles and tendons. In his forest therapy practice, Geoff combines a foundation in physiological science with a love of the outdoors and an interest in the geological history of Aotearoa New Zealand. He has been guiding forest therapy walks since 2021 and invites you to join him in this mindful and bodyful nature immersion experience.

COVID-19 INFORMATION

This event will take place if it fits within the current Protection Framework restrictions and Government guidelines at the time. Possibility of postponement or cancellation if Framework restrictions and New Zealand Government guidelines change, or if the event is affected by staffing shortages.

This event will be facilitated and a My Vaccine Pass is required to attend. Please have your vaccine pass ready to present to the team on arrival as well as scanning the QR code.

For more information on Cornwall Park at the current alert level, visit cornwallpark.co.nz/whats-on.

For more information on COVID-19, visit covid19.govt.nz.