UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — A wellness practice called "forest bathing" is being offered to Penn State students, faculty, staff and community members through the month of October.
Forest bathing is inspired by the Japanese practice of “taking in the forest,” according to Mary Price, a certified forest therapy guide trained by the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy (ANFT). A research-based approach that supports health and wellness through guided, slow, sensory walks, forest bathing is designed to help balance the body, mind and spirit by shifting attention from a participant's thoughts to their senses.
According to Price, who will lead the walks, the benefits of the practice include reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood and a strengthened immune system.
Forest bathing is offered through Health Promotion and Wellness, a unit in the division of Penn State Student Affairs, and the Arboretum at Penn State. These sessions begin Sept. 9 and will occur every Tuesday and Wednesday through Oct. 29 in Hartley Wood at the Arboretum.
Tuesday sessions are from 4 to 5:30 p.m., while Wednesday’s sessions are from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Space is limited to 15 participants, who must register online to reserve a space. Directions for the exact meeting location will be shared after registering.
For more information, visit the HPW events webpage. Questions about "Shinrin-Yoku, Forest Bathing" can be directed to HPW staff at promotinghealth@psu.edu.
Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.