Forest Bathing
Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku in Japanese, involves spending time in a forest or other natural setting while focusing on the senses and engaging in mindful practices. Forest bathing promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and improves overall well-being, aided by helpful chemicals released by plants, soil, and moving water. The translation of the Japanese term invokes the idea of a person immersed in the benefits of nature. RiverWise forest bathing walks are offered for 2, 3, or 4 hours and locations vary in the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas. Please contact us for more information or to book a walk.
Upcoming Event:
Educators Escape From Back-To-School Chaos
Sunday, August 23, 9:30am - 11:30am
Join Talia Sledge, LMSW, for a two-hour guided forest bathing experience for educators. We will walk in the bosque, meeting at the main trailhead at the parking area for the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park (this walk is not affiliated with NM State Parks programs). Parking at the center costs $5, or free parking is located one block away in the neighborhood.
This is a chance to relax, recharge, and reconnect after the first few chaotic weeks of school.
This is a free event (donations welcome) limited to 20 spaces but registration is required!
All walks are slow on mostly flat terrain and ADA accessible trails managed by NM state parks and Abq open space division. The total walking distance will be about 1.5 miles. A small tea offering and snack is provided at the end of the event. This walk starts promptly at 9:30am. This site has restroom and water facilities.
To register, call or text Talia at 505-585-4188 or email riverwisetherapy@gmail.com
What happens on a Forest Bathing Walk?
Walks are led by a certified guide and include a welcoming and introduction followed by guided sensory mindfulness. The guide then offers a series of invitational, contemplative, and playful interactions with the more-than-human-world. All walks conclude with a small ceremony of tea/juice and light snacks.
Research on Forest Bathing
Who Certified The Guide?
RiverWise forest bathing walks are led by certified guide, Talia Sledge, LMSW. She became certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs in February 2023. Talia has led groups and individuals on forest bathing walks in multiple USA states and other countries.
How Much Does It Cost?
Private forest bathing experiences last 1.5-4 hours, the customer chooses the length. The fee is for 1 - 10 people. For groups larger than 10, please contact us:
1.5 hours: $90, 2 hours: $120, 3 hours: $180, 4 hours $240
Prices vary for larger groups or special events. Please contact us for more information or to book.