Nature and Forest Therapy for Anxiety and Depression
Thu, May 19
|Palisades-Kepler State Park
Forest bathing is a wonderful practice that assists in regulating the body and also supports those of us that experience anxiety and depression.


Time & Location
May 19, 2022, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Palisades-Kepler State Park, 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA
About the Event
Join Backyard Abundance and Good Medicine for an immersive experience with the land and the (just passed) full moon. Bring your whole self on this gentle, reflective walk with the land and let's see what we encounter. We will be provided with an opportunity to slow down and be present with self and with the world around us. We will bath in the medicine of the land, known as Shinrin-Yoku, a practice that first started in Japan.
Wellness is a big part of Forest Therapy. Much research has been done on the restorative benefits of forest therapy and time spent with the more-than-human-world. Hundreds of clinical and non-clinical studies have been done and show numerous positive effects including reductions in stress, anxiety, depression, mental fatigue, anger and pain. Improvements noted include better cognitive functioning, sleep, mood, confidence and creativity.
Time with our nature kin also boosts our immune systems, regulates blood pressure, improves relationships, increases feelings of gratitude and so much more.
This is an all outdoor event.
THINGS TO BRING
- Blankets, mats, walking poles, anything to help you feel comfortable, are welcome
- Appropriate dress for weather
REGISTRATION
Sliding scale fee: $30 - $0, based upon your access to resources.
Backyard Abundance members receive a 10% discount.
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
Guided by Emelia Sautter, Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, foundress of Good Medicine, Nature and Forest Therapy Practice in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
LOCATION
Palisades-Kepler State Park, 700 Kepler Dr, Mt Vernon, IA 52314, USA. (Meet at the river, west end parking lot)
COVID-19
The event is held outside. Masks are optional. We will try to maintain 6' distancing.
SPONSORS AND PARTNERS
This class was developed in collaboration with many community partners using grant funding from the Johnson County Community Foundation and the Roy A. Hunt Foundation. 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.
Tickets
Abundance of Resources
This fee is for people with expendable income. This option allows you to assist others in attending our classes by “paying it forward” for those who have less access to opportunities.
$30.00Sale endedTraditional Resources
This fee is for people who have the resources they need to make ends meet and can attend our classes at full cost.
$25.00Sale endedReduced Access to Resources
This fee is for people who are working hard to make ends meet on low wages and have less access to resources and opportunities.
$15.00Sale endedUnder Resourced
This option is for people who have low access to resources. Examples include those with income below the poverty line, people living with mental and physical health concerns, and people experiencing insecurity in basic needs attainment.
$0.00Sale ended
Total
$0.00