shinrin-yoku: forest therapy
forest bathing

Forest Therapy / Forest Bathing with Wild Alabama

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Each month, Wild Alabama’s Education & Outreach Coordinator, Janice Barrett, collaborates with poet, author, and arts educator Anne Markham Bailey, a certified ANFT Forest Bathing Guide, to offer a day-long Forest Bathing experience in the Bankhead and/or Talladega National Forest.

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Forest Bathing—known in Japan as Shinrin-yoku (literally “forest air bathing”)—is a gentle, guided practice of slowing down and connecting with the natural world through the senses. These sessions are not hikes. Rather than focusing on distance or destination, Forest Bathing invites participants into a deeper awareness of being—in the forest, within oneself, and in shared community.

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Forest Bathing is part of a growing field often referred to as Forest Therapy, which supports mental, emotional, and physical well-being through intentional time spent in nature.

 

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Evidence-Based Benefits

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Research shows Forest Bathing can support well-being in a variety of ways, including:

• Lowered cortisol (the body’s primary stress hormone)

• Reduced heart rate

• Increased feelings of calm and well-being

• Greater optimism and improved mood

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What to Expect

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During these day-long sessions, participants spend much of the time in quiet and guided silence, with gentle invitations from the guides to open the senses and deepen connection—to the trees, water, earth, and the present moment.

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The experience includes:

• Guided sensory invitations and mindfulness practices

• Time for rest, reflection, and slow wandering

• Group sharing circles throughout the day

• A closing circle with a tea service

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Location & Route

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The specific location in the Bankhead National Forest will be shared with registered participants. The Forest Bathing walk includes approximately 1.25 miles round trip on a trail that is unmaintained, with uneven footing and gradual slopes (downhill on the way in, uphill on the way out). Most participants who are comfortable with light hiking should find the route manageable.

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Additional Locations in the Talladega National Forest will be similar to above.  More specific location information will be shared at registration. 

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What to Bring

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Participants should bring:

• Lunch and snacks

• Drinking water

• A small pad or cloth for comfortable sitting or lying down

 

A detailed packing list and directions will be emailed to those who sign up.

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Important Notes

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• Group size is typically limited to eight participants to keep the experience personal and quiet.

• No dogs, smoking, or firearms, please.

• For ages 16 and older. If you are interested in a session for younger participants, contact us to discuss options.

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Want to Learn More?

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• Watch a short video by Anne Markham Bailey about Forest Bathing​

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• Read this nationally featured article from the U.S. Forest Service highlighting Forest Bathing in the Bankhead National Forest. This piece explores the growing recognition of forest-based wellness practices and showcases the unique landscapes of Bankhead as a place for connection, restoration, and well-being.

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• View our upcoming Forest Bathing dates and registration information on our Events Page at the Top

• Interested in a Forest Bathing program for your school, team, or family? Reach out—we’d love to help you plan one.  Reach out to Anne Bailey (anne@wildal.org) or Janice Barrett (janice@wildal.org)