Forest Bathing

Join us and experience nature’s power to soothe, refresh, and open your heart. The Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing in English) is a slow, sensory-based walk in the woods, during which we focus on the sights, sounds, smells, feels and tastes of nature. This is neither a naturalist exploration nor a fitness trek; this walk is about soaking in the health benefits of spending relaxed time in nature. It’s also about tending and mending our relationships with nature, ourselves, and others. There are no requirements – just come as you are.

This Forest Bathing session is included with admission as part of Dogwood Days! Please register in advance below. If you are not a Garden member, you will be required to pay regular daily admission upon arrival at the Garden.

About the Instructor

Doug Jones received his certification as a Forest Therapy Guide in 2020 from the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT). Prior to beginning his Forest Therapy practice, he worked as an independent psychologist in Sewickley, Pennsylvania and at Sewickley Academy for over 30 years. In retirement, his goal is to guide walks as a way of staying in service to others and nature. The encounters that occur during a Forest Therapy walk provide participants with the opportunity to recollect and embody their sense of being at home in nature and with themselves. The ANFT motto is: “The forest is the therapist, the guide opens the doors.”

Program suitable for adults (18+) and children age 16 years and older, if accompanied by an adult.

Dogwood Days at Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is presented by Peoples Natural Gas