Forest Bathing

Reconnect with nature. Reduce stress. Find inner harmony.

Step into the tranquility of the trees and experience the healing power of forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku. Developed in Japan in the 1980s, shinrin-yoku (which translates to “taking in the forest atmosphere”) is a recognized practice for preventative healthcare and stress management. At Magic Tree Sanctuary, we invite you to slow down, awaken your senses, and rekindle your relationship with the natural world in a profound and intentional way.

Forest bathing is a mindfulness practice that supports healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. It’s a gentle, guided experience that helps you quiet the mind, open your heart, and rediscover the simple joy of being present with nature. It is not a hike, nor is it exercise.

Forest bathing is about being in nature, not doing in nature.

Benefits of Forest Bathing

Scientific studies have shown that forest bathing can:

  • Reduce stress and lower cortisol levels

  • Improve mood and decrease feelings of anxiety and depression

  • Boost the immune system by increasing Natural Killer (NK) cell activity

  • Lower blood pressure and heart rate

  • Improve sleep quality

  • Increase focus, concentration, and cognitive function

  • Enhance creativity and inspiration

  • Foster a deep connection to nature

  • Provide a space for emotional healing and gaining perspective

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”

– John Muir

The Magic Tree Sanctuary Forest Bathing Experience

Imagine yourself surrounded by the beauty of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, or perhaps exploring an expansive nature reserve in Davidson, North Carolina.

At Magic Tree Sanctuary, your forest bathing experience unfolds admist a landscape of towering trees, winding paths, and vibrant wildflowers. If your session takes place at our Blue Ridge Mountain location, you might discover whimsical tree carvings or peaceful statues nestled along the paths, adding a touch of magic to your journey.

During your session, your guide, Julie, will gently walk you through a series of sensory invitations, helping you to slow down, tune into your senses, and connect with nature in a deeply personal way. You will find a space for relaxation and emerge from the forest feeling calm, centered, and renewed. Each session lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Forest Bathing Sessions

  • Private Forest Bathing Session

    Enjoy a personalized forest bathing experience designed to meet your individual needs. This 90-minute session, guided by Julie, offers a unique opportunity to quiet your mind, restore your connection with nature and yourself, and find deep relaxation in a safe and supportive environment.

    Held at either our Blue Ridge Mountains retreat space or in Davidson, North Carolina.

    For individuals and couples: $100

    Contact Julie to Book a Private Session

  • Group Forest Bathing Session

    Share the restorative power of forest bathing with family or friends. This 2-hour guided experience provides a unique way to connect with loved ones while deepening your connection with nature.

    Held at either our Blue Ridge Mountains retreat space or in Davidson, North Carolina.

    For groups of 3 people: $125

    More than 3 people in your party? $25 per additional person

    Contact Julie to Book a Group Session

What Others Have Discovered

  • I've always been an outdoor person, but in the busy life I lead, I sometimes forget the beauty in nature and how much I enjoy and appreciate it. My walk with Julie was great. It was just one on one so it allowed me to explore a little more. It made me realize that I'm not getting out in nature as much as I want to. So now, 3 times a week, I take my dog walking in the woods and I just love it. It's really worth your while to do this!

    — Kerry Rasenberger

  • I really enjoyed spending time in the forest, experiencing it in a way that I typically have not. I appreciated being encouraged to tune into all my senses and witness how they engage with the environment around me. I also enjoyed hearing about the experiences of those who accompanied me on the walk. This is something that I will definitely do again!

    — Sedi Devoe

  • What an amazing experience! Each part of the journey, Julie provides a prompt for you to take notice of colors, sounds, movement or the like. Each prompt built upon the previous prompt truly making you aware fo the forest. Although I've always enjoyed walking in the woods, this walk felt totally meditative by inviting me to be present and aware. I am looking forward to future walks with Julie!

    — Stephanie Janczak

  • Thank you so much for such a grounding, connecting, inspiring, refreshing, reenergizing, and lovely forest bathing session. It was exactly what I needed! I love the way you weave everything together for a special experience—the poems, the invitations, the observations, the knowledge from our indigenous people—all of it!

    — Cristina S.

Become a Certified Forest Therapy Guide

Are you passionate about nature connection and interested in guiding others on their own forest bathing journeys?

Julie Sczerbinski, co-founder of The Forest Therapy School, offers comprehensive training programs to become a certified Forest Therapy Guide.