This event is brought to you by National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia as part of the October Park of the Month - Belair National Park events program.
This nature connection event delivered by an occupational therapist in conjunction with the National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia is an opportunity to come and try a version of Forest Bathing inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku. Forest Bathing is not about bushwalking or nature identification, or ‘thinking’. It is an opportunity to engage our 5 senses - listening, touching, smelling, tasting and seeing as we allow ourselves to just ‘be’ in nature. The experience involves guided ‘invitations’ to help us connect with nature, calm our busy minds, perhaps be playful and have some fun and is tailored to the needs of the group.
Nature connection supports the development of sensory awareness, physical skills, emotional regulation and connecting with others in a group - plus many other benefits. Forest Bathing is associated with reduced feelings of stress & anxiety, lowered blood pressure and improved mood, sleep and sense of vitality!
In a world where people of all ages are increasingly disconnected from nature, a deliberate nature-based experience such as this can help us access the wellbeing benefits of nature.
FAQs
Where will we meet?
Enter Belair National Park Main entrance (from Upper Sturt Rd) - note that the vehicle entrance fee applies. Keep to the left and turn left on Sir Edwin Ave along the edge of Playford Lake. We will meet adjacent the toilet block and car park areas. If you can't find us then please ring Bronwyn on 0412 404 700 (although I won't answer after the session has started).
Is there a toilet?
YES - there is an accessible toilet available at this location.
Are their age restrictions? Is this suitable for children?
This event is best suited to adults or children over 8 who are able to stand quietly and listen for up to 10minutes.
How physically demanding is Forest Bathing?
This Forest Bathing experience will be held along the trail around Playford lake and the surrounding area. The trail is compact bitumen and gently sloping in places. We will also spend some time on a sloping grassy area. You will be most comfortable at this event if you are able to manage walking up and down gentle slopes (slowly), standing/walking (slowly) for up to an hour and a half and sitting on the ground for around 15 minutes (there are a couple of small stools available to borrow and some seats and logs that can be used to sit on). If you require more information about mobility requirements please contact Bronwyn at flourishnaturebasedot@gmail.com or text 0412404700. You can view the trail via Google Maps street view.
Will I be safe?
I have a current wilderness first aid certificate and will be carrying a first aid kit. There is mobile phone reception in the area we will spend time in. Please advise any particular health concerns that may be relevant. Please feel free to text Bronwyn to discuss any concerns on 0412404700.
All current SA Health requirements regarding covid-19 will be required to be followed during the event. This particularly applies to maintaining 1.5m distance from other people not in your household group. Tea will be served in new single use cups. Please bring your own hand sanitiser.
What should I bring into the event?
We will go ahead regardless of the weather so dress appropriately during cold weather and bring waterproof clothing (and an umbrella) in case of rain. Forest Bathing in the rain is a magical experience! Consider wearing/bringing an extra layer as well as beanie (hat), gloves and scarf if it's cold or windy. We move very slowly during a Forest Bathing session, and spend time sitting still so perhaps add an extra layer to your clothing since we're not physically active. If sunny then suncream and a shady hat are recommended.
Also - a drink bottle of water, and any special snacks you may want. A simple snack (usually fruit) and place specific tea will be served as part of the experience. If you or anyone in your group have any dietary restrictions or allergies please contact the organiser at flourishnaturebasedot@gmail.com to advise prior to the event.
How can I contact the organiser with any questions?
e-mail flourishnaturebasedot@gmail.com or text Bronwyn on 0412404700.
What's the refund policy?
The event will only be cancelled in the case of extreme weather or safety hazards e.g., thunderstorms or fire danger rating of severe or above.
We really encourage you to prioritise this wellbeing practice for your self-care and make it important for you to attend once you have booked.
NOTE - when you purchase a ticket you will receive an e-mail confirmation which has a link to a document with Terms and Conditions that you are asked to print and fill in if you are able to. Copies will be available at the event for completion - please arrive 15 min early to complete the form.
