Forest Bathing at the Garden

About this event

Connect with nature and join us for a guided forest therapy walk! Rekindle your relationship with nature on the Fall Equinox through a guided outdoor Forest Bathing walk with certified Forest Therapy guide Laura Bincik. At a slow pace and in community with other participants and the environment, you will be guided by a series of invitations throughout the experience to awaken your senses and intentionally connect with nature in the present moment. We will gather briefly indoors to prepare for the walk and consider the origin of Forest Bathing as well as some of the benefits of the practice. When we venture into the Toronto Botanical Gardens and cover cover a loop of approx. 1.5 Km on paved pathways, lawns and bare ground, at times encountering uneven terrain, inclines and declines. We will be strolling, standing and sitting (if you wish to). Your comfort and safety are most important! Please note: Due to the recent storm, the surrounding Wilket Creek Ravine faced severe damage and has unfortunately remained closed to the public until repairs can be made. The upcoming Forest Bathing Walk will be held on the Toronto Botanical Garden property only as it is not safe to venture into the ravine. You will still be invited to enjoy the beauty of the gardens at the edge of the forest as you reconnect with nature and celebrate the fall equinox As this program occurs rain or shine, please dress for the weather and wear sturdy, closed-toed footwear. Long pants and shirt sleeves will help to protect against insect bites. You may wish to bring a water bottle, sunhat/glasses, walking poles and/or a folding stool or sitting/kneeling pad. As the walk ends, we will gather and partake in a seasonal tea, snacks and taste honey harvested at Toronto Botanical Garden. In the event of severe weather or environmental conditions, TBG staff will make alternative arrangements to the program. Washrooms are available onsite. The program is suited for adults 18+. All participants must sign a liability waiver at the start of the program. Service pets welcome but we ask that you leave your pets at home during this program. Wednesday, September 23 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Public $35, TBG Members $30 (plus applicable taxes and fees) About Laura Bincik Laura Bincik is a certified Forest Therapy guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. Following a career that straddled health care and education, Laura discovered that her lifelong sense of awe for the natural world could be enriched and shared with others to enhance wellbeing. Laura feels a connection to the land and the wonder of being in nature from countless hours spent exploring Toronto ravines in all seasons. An active member of Nature and Forest Therapy Canada, Laura follows the growing research on the mental and physical health benefits of Forest Bathing and is expanding her practice by connecting with local, national and international leaders in the field. Join Toronto Botanical Garden Join the Toronto Botanical Garden (TBG) as a member to get a discount on this program, upcoming events and classes, and free parking. A TBG membership helps you deepen your knowledge and connection to the natural world, become a part of a dynamic community of plant people, and be inspired! Become a member! Additional Program Information • Please review our Refund Policy and Terms of Agreement. • For more information on accessibility at the garden please review our Accessibility Features webpage. If you have any accessibility requirements during your program please email [email protected]. • To learn more about the Toronto Botanical Garden and our programs, please review our list of Frequently Asked Questions.