FOREST BATHING FAQ'S
WHY MASSAGED BY NATURE?
Step back from life's hectic pace to take in the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and textures of the Fundy Coast and its natural surroundings.
Allow yourself to be transported into a place of serenity, where you can find peace and clarity away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Massaged by Nature is a place to regenerate and heal.
Our guides are trained in the art of mindfulness, to slow you down, and invite you to interact with and experience nature like never before, with ALL of your senses.
Rather than the destination, this experience is about the details of the journey - seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting and touching nature with your FULL AWARENESS.
What is Forest Bathing?
We all have busy lives.
Surrender your STRESS to the healing power of nature.
​
Forest Bathing is the act of walking slowly in nature, and experiencing all the elements of nature through our senses.
​
Forest Bathing is about slowing down and simply BE-ing present.
​
All you have to do in this experience is breathe, walk, be curious, and let all your senses be massaged by nature.​
Why Forest Bathing?
FOREST BATHING PROMOTES
WELL-BEING
​
Stress is a part of everyday life. But too much stress can take a toll on your mind and body. Feeling stressed for long periods of time can lead to depression, increased anxiety, and even physical symptoms, like body aches. One simple way to manage stress? Spending time in nature — or forest bathing.
The calming benefits of spending time in nature are well documented. A blog by Vancouver’s David Suzuki Foundation sums them up, including decreased anxiety and a strengthened immune system. Japanese studies have shown that people who spend time in the forest inhale beneficial bacteria, plant-based essential oils, and negatively charged ions. The Association of Nature & Forest Therapy lists numerous benefits including reduced blood pressure, increased energy, and increased ability to focus.
Should I come alone, with a friend, or in a group or team?
FOREST BATHING IS BOTH A PERSONAL AND A SHARED EXPERIENCE.
​
While some people liken forest bathing to meditation, it’s not necessarily a solitary experience. It is, however, a mindful one, with a similar practice of slowing down and really being in the moment.
But sharing is also part of the experience. Phil guides people both one-on-one and in small groups. “You want a small enough group that there’s that feeling of safety,” he says. Participants have time to contemplate the forest on their own and with others. “It makes it a much richer experience,” he says. “You’re hearing and seeing things through what they share that you didn’t notice yourself. There’s a lot of connection and pleasure in sharing forest therapy with other people.”
Why do I need a Guide to Forest Bath?
HAVING A GUIDE IS VALUABLE
Our Guides are trained in the art of mindfulness. The guide’s role isn’t to explain the flora and fauna, although we are located between 2 UNESCO biospheres. Rather, the guide facilitates the contemplative experience, offering participants “invitations” to interact with the forest in a meaningful and healing way.
Some people benefit from a guide in the same way they might benefit from a personal trainer at the gym. “Sometimes we have to make a commitment to other people in order to make a commitment to ourselves,”
“Sometimes when we have a coach or guide meeting us at a certain time, we are more likely to go out and do this thing we know is beneficial for us.”
Can I bring my cell phone?
Before and After pictures in our parking lot are highly encouraged.
We would recommend turning off your cell phone for this experience. In fact our guide will remind you;)
No need to take pictures during the experience. It’s difficult to be mindful and present with all your senses while on your phone.
How long is the experience?
Most experiences are 2.5 hours in duration, and happen RAIN or SHINE.
**CUSTOM EXPERIENCES ARE WELCOME AND AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
What should I bring?
Dress for the weather. The Bay of Fundy’s weather can change quickly, so be prepared.
Bring water, a small day pack, hiking, a mug for tea, boots, a hat, and bug spray (depending on the season).