Forest Therapy:

Our Walks takes you on a gentle, easy, yet powerful journey. Our guide will lead you or a group on a walk in a natural environment, offering suggestive activities known as "invitations." This defined sequence of invitations will help you slow down, calm your mind, awaken your senses, elevate mindfulness, and find pleasure in the present moment. At the same time, deepen your connection with yourself, others, and Nature. We sit, stand, interact with Nature, and sometimes go barefoot. However, your participation in each invitation is optional, and there's no right or wrong way to participate, so do what feels right for you! We won't judge. 🙂

Following each invitation, we come together for the option to share our experiences, and deepen our connection. We concluded each Forest Therapy Walk with our Testify, Encourage, Ascend! (T.E.A.) Gathering. The T.E.A. Gathering includes lunch (pending the service you registered for), but we serve tea on every walk.

Nature & Faith:

Please refer to the above information on Forest Therapy, except that all activities known as "invitations" are Christ-centered based on Biblical Scriptures and Christian values.

Our Walks range between 1.5 to 5 hours (pending the service), less than 1 mile long, and fit for all ages and physical conditions—no prior experience required.

Forest Therapy is a guided immersive experience in Nature that supports health, wellness, and happiness inspired by the Japanese shinrin-yoku, or "Forest Bathing," which is proven by scientific studies. The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), where I received my Certification, trains with a technique that connects you with Nature healingly and emphasizes reciprocity.

Forest Therapy Guides help participants slow down, calm their minds, find pleasure in the present moment, and experience the beautiful offerings of Nature through their senses. Deepening connections and reciprocal relationships between people and Nature, vitalizing the wholeness and wellness of people and the land.

ORIGIN OF FOREST THERAPY:

Forest Therapy is inspired by the Shinrin-yoku, or "Forest Bathing" practice in Japan.

In the 1980s, Governmental Leaders in Japan began medical research on humans interacting with Nature in response to a national health crisis, including a spike in stress-related issues, a surge in autoimmune diseases, and cancer diagnoses. The health decline was linked to the tech and industrial boom, where people spent more time working indoors and less time outdoors.

With decades of research, they found scientific proof to support how time spent in Nature benefits mind, body, and soul. One point of their discovery is that trees release phytoncides to protect themselves from harmful organisms. When we spend time in forest settings, we absorb this chemical (Forest Bathing). Our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a particular white blood cell called natural killer cells or NK to fight cancer, infections, and other virus-related illnesses. They also uncovered that time in Nature reduces stress hormones, improves mental clarity and concentration, boosts the immune system, and uplifts the spirit.

Yes, anyone can take a walk in the park or forest. However, trained Forest Therapy Guides lead with specific skills to calm your mind and connect with Nature healingly. Our guided immersions are unlike any walk you've had before unless you've been on a Forest Therapy Walk!

In our fast-paced world, many people move through natural settings with a preoccupied mind and speedy body. Here's where Forest Therapy Guides come in with creative activities or "invitations" that help participants stay in the moment and mindfully interact with the landscape in ways that support mental, physical, and emotional wellness.

These Walks encourage participants to awaken all the senses, calm the mind, and be present in the body to experience the profound healing sensations of the natural world, making each forest therapy experience unforgettable.

Our Guides create a safe and non-judgmental space to share your moments and be attentively listened to, creating a more meaningful experience and deepening your connection with others.

Mental Health Benefits:

Nature has a way of rejuvenating and revitalizing our spirits. Forest Therapy combines science-backed techniques, mindful presence, and the healing powers of the natural environment. Research has shown that time in nature can activate the parasympathetic nervous system and increase mental relaxation, reduce stress cortisol levels, raise energy levels, lift depression, boost mental clarity, and improve concentration and memory. It also positively affects mood, improves sleep, sparks creativity, and increases productivity.

Physical Health Benefits:

Immerse yourself in the healing embrace of Nature and unlock its therapeutic benefits. Forest Therapy benefits include but are not limited to improved cardiovascular (heart) health and blood circulation, boosted respiratory and immunity functions—enhanced metabolic health (lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels)—increased natural killer (NK) white blood cell production to fight cancer, infections, and viruses. Forest Therapy is also known to alleviate pain and aid in recovery from illnesses and surgeries.

Scientists are continuing to research the benefits of human interaction with Nature and making discoveries. We will do our best to keep you updated as we learn them! For now, here's what we know about the benefits of Forest Therapy today.

No. Forest Therapy is an inclusive practice that welcomes people of all beliefs and backgrounds. By slowing down and tuning into their natural senses, participants may experience a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. However, as your guide, I respect and leave it up to each individual to plug in and experience Nature in their most authentic way.

Our Forest Therapy Walks:

Is an all-encompassing Forest Therapy Walk experience that invites individuals from all beliefs and backgrounds. On our immersions, "the forest is the therapist. I'm the guide opening the door." Helping you connect and experience Nature's healing powers in the way that's right for you!

Our Nature & Faith Programs:

Is a Christ-centered Forest Therapy Walk based on Christian values and Biblical Scriptures. We use the language of Faith on the journey and welcome individuals from all beliefs and backgrounds on the this journey. On our immersions, "The forest is the therapist. I'm the guide opening the door." Helping you connect and experience the profound healing powers of Nature, while building Faith and resilience in a way that resonates with you!

"The Forest is the therapist. I'm your qualified guide, opening the door."

Alicia Frizzle is a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide dedicated to helping you explore nature's healing benefits for your mind, body, and soul. She leads immersive forest experiences that allow you to connect deeply with the natural world. While Alicia is certified in many areas, please remember that she is not a therapist and does not diagnose, counsel, or prescribe treatments.

For more information about Alicia Frizzle, feel free to explore Our Story page by clicking here.

Our scheduled event walks are open to anyone, and we welcome up to 30 participants per walk. We take pride in ensuring that each participant has an optimal experience, which is why we limit the number of participants to 30 or fewer. So take advantage of this unique opportunity to explore with us!

Health Concerns:

If you have questions regarding your health, we highly recommend consulting your primary care physician before registering for our Nature & Forest Therapy programs. We also recommend that all participants complete and return a basic Health Questionnaire form to us before attending each Walk. This is to ensure that we are aware of any health issues you may have and can prepare to assist you accordingly within our training limits.

Injuries:

Our guide has specific CPR + Wilderness First Aid training and an emergency response plan to assist with some injuries and health-related concerns should they occur during our Walk until qualified EMS (Emergency Medical Service) arrive. The need for this is minimal as most of our Walks and hikes are within city limits and minutes away from the nearest hospital.

We do not engage in anything dangerous on our Nature & Forest Therapy Walks. Come prepared, relax, and enjoy the wonders of Nature.

As a Certified guide, I have thorough knowledge and experience in the forest and marshlands where I host Walks. Additionally, I am trained to access trails and regularly visit each path I guide participants on. Part of our training includes the requirement of Wilderness First Aid along with an emergency response plan.

To our knowledge, the potential risks of participating in a guided forest therapy session are someone missing a step on an unpaved or uneven trail and falling, brushing up against poisonous plants, or encountering ticks, mostly off-trail. We do not guide participants on off-trails, but they are free to explore them at their own risk. However, certain things can occur in natural settings that are beyond the guide's control. Please do not worry; I keep my first-aid kit on hand and provide each participant with a visual hazard info card to help them identify poisonous plants and ticks.

Nature showing off many textures, fabrics, and colors is the most fabulous fashion show, so don't try to compete! Lol

Dress in comfortable garments you don't mind getting dirty, as we will interact with Nature. Be mindful of the weather and dress accordingly. A daypack is valuable for keeping your hands free and carrying extra layers on cool or warm days, along with sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, water, and a hat. Others have found a journal and pen beneficial on their journey. Snacks are good if you're a foodie, but you will be in one spot longer to enjoy a packed lunch after the Walk. A pair of running sneakers (warmer months) or hiking boots is perfect for shoes. And remember, the most important item to bring is a refillable water bottle, ensuring you stay safe and hydrated throughout your adventure!

Special Note: We only provide lunch and snacks for private bookings, including Faith Experience, Sunshine Experience, and Corporate/Business Retreat Walks. Please pack a snack for all other bookings, including our Ascend Walk, Refuel Walk, Hike By Faith Coaching Session, and when attending one of our Prayer Hikes.

Our rain, snow, or shine programs are designed to create a memorable experience. Your safety is our top priority, so please dress appropriately as we will spend approximately 1.5 to 5 hours in nature. In the event of unsafe weather conditions, such as thunderstorms, we will seek shelter and wait until it's safe to continue our journey. We closely monitor the weather, and if conditions become hazardous, we will cancel the Walk anywhere from a day up to two hours before the start. In such cases, we will ensure you are rescheduled within 48 hours, prioritizing your safety and comfort.

We will reschedule the Walk within 30 days of the original date. For example, if your Walk is scheduled for October 1, we will reschedule it on or before November 1.

Refund/Cancellations:

Our Nature & Forest Therapy and Nature & Faith Forest Therapy Programs and events are confirmed upon purchase. Due to limited space, registrations are non-refundable. However, we offer flexible options if you need to change your plans:

- You can reschedule within 24 hours of your booking via a link sent at the time of your booking.

- If you miss this window, your registration is still confirmed, but you can transfer your spot to a friend or loved one by following our registration guidelines within 24 hours.

Our programs operate rain, snow, or shine but can be canceled and rescheduled with 24-hour notice. Life can be unpredictable, and we understand that. If you need to cancel your original Walk date, you have thirty (30) days from the cancellation date to reschedule. For example, if your Walk is on October 1, you must reschedule with the 24-hour time window and book a session by November 1.

We’re here to support you, so just let us know how we can help!

Rescheduling:

Having trouble with the rescheduling link from your registration confirmation? No worries! Just follow these simple steps and give us 24-72 hours to get back to you with your new walk date via email:

To reschedule, please:

- Email: [email protected]

- Subject: Reschedule: [Your First & Last Name]

- Body: List three dates and times you’re available for a future Walk

Transfer Your Walk:

- Email: [email protected]

- Subject: Transfer Walk: [Person's First & Last Name]

- Body: Provide us with the transferee's contact information: first and last name, email, and phone number.

* Provide the transferee with a link to our Liability Waiver as we will are unable to do so. The waiver must be completed and received 24-hours before the Walk.

We’re here to help and look forward to seeing you or your transferee!

Weather Cancellation:

We closely monitor the weather, and if conditions become hazardous, we will cancel the Walk anywhere from a day up to one hour before the start. In such cases, we will ensure you are rescheduled within 48 hours. Your safety and comforting is our top priority, and we want you to feel secure during our programs.

Guide Cancellation:

The Guide reserves the right to cancel any Walk, from weather conditions to unforeseen circumstances. If the Guide cancels a Walk, we will get you rescheduled within 48 hours or issue you a full refund.