Halloween Forest Therapy

Immerse yourself in a hauntingly serene experience this Halloween/Samhain at our mystical forest bathing event in the enchanting Oakland Cemetery.

Enjoy opening all your senses amidst the ethereal beauty of autumnal foliage and whispered tales of the departed.

Forest therapy is a guided immersion in natural environments that promotes the well-being of people and the land. Research shows these numerous therapeutic benefits:

• Reduces stress, anxiety, depression, anger and pain.
• Improves cognitive functioning, sleep, mood and creativity
• Boosts the immune system, regulates blood pressure, improves relationships and increases feelings of gratitude.

Unwind, rejuvenate, and connect with nature's spirits as you embark on a transformative journey through the delicate balance between life and death.

THINGS TO BRING

If it is chilly, dress extra warm and bring a blanket. If it is wet or rainy, wear clothing to keep you warm and dry.

• Water bottle
• Good shoes for being outdoors
• Insect repellent 
• Anything else that might help you feel comfortable being outdoors

REGISTRATION

Sliding scale fee: $5 - $30, based upon your access to resources.

Backyard Abundance members receive a 10% discount. Learn about Backyard Abundance membership

QUESTIONS

Call 319-325-6810 to reach the educator of your class.

INVITE FRIENDS AND FAMILY

We need a minimum of 10 attendees to host the class. Please invite friends and family to ensure the event happens as scheduled. We would love to meet your loved ones.

EDUCATOR

Emelia Sautter is a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. She is the foundress of Good Medicine, Nature and Forest Therapy Practice in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

LOCATION

We meet at the Oakland Cemetery main/west entrance: 1000 Brown St, Iowa City. (It is the entrance off of Govenor St and Dewey St.)

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

This class was developed in collaboration with many community partners and was funded by Hills Bank. It would not be possible without these sponsors and supporters. Please  frequent these generous organizations to thank them for donations of  time, materials and funds.

• Hills Bank
• Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department
• 100 Grannies
• Master Gardeners of Johnson County
• New Pioneer Food Co-op

Photo courtesy of Dawn Frary, Iowa City photographer and death doula.