Join ANFT certified forest therapy guide, Katie Venechuk, to explore the relaxing practice of guided forest bathing during this special three-hour, after-dark experience! As always, our program will begin with a brief introduction to the background and research of Shinrin-yoku (translated in English as “forest bathing”), how it differs from a hike in the woods, and why it’s internationally recognized as an effective tool for natural stress relief. From there, you'll be led into the October forest as the sun sets on the horizon, fully equipped for your evening outdoors with a provided sit pad, blanket, flashlight, and more. This experience will weave together guided meditation to help you calm your mind and get comfortable as darkness falls, a variety of prompts for nature exploration after dark, space for optional community connection, harvesting of a tea plant together, and ample time to slow down and notice new details in the world around you. We'll end with a candlelit wild foraged tea service, offering you new tastes and nourishment from nature, a snack, and a little time to visit as a community. Depending on the outside temperature, tea will be served either in the forest or indoors at the nature center for time to warm up. You'll be guided back to the parking lot by our end time at 9pm. From tree silhouettes to nighttime wildlife, stargazing, and more, there is so much to discover during an evening in the fall forest!  We hope you’ll join us and see what you'll discover in October after dark!

Program Includes: A provided sit pad and blanket, a red-tinted flashlight to use during the program, hot stone hand warmers, essential oils for meditation, wild foraged tea and a small snack, and after-hours access to the nature center grounds.  We will also have bug spray available for your use, if needed (deet and deet free options).

Instructor: Katie Venechuk, founder and program guide at In Your Element Wellness and Certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.

Cost:
Non-Member: $45
Non-member (20% discount): $36

Note: This program is for adults ages 18 and older. Pre-registration is required due to limited capacity. Online registration closes at noon on the day before the program. If the program sells out, you may complete your online registration to be added to the waitlist. We will contact you if spots become available. This program will take place entirely outdoors. In the event of severe weather, this program will be cancelled, and participants will be notified of their refund options and/or a possible makeup date.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests received at least 7 days before the scheduled program are eligible for a 50% refund of the total registration cost, not including the credit card processing fee. Due to administration costs, full refunds are not available. Cancellation requests received within 7 days of a program are not eligible for a refund. In the event that Blandford must cancel the program, you will be given the option to reschedule or receive a refund. All community programs will have a registrant minimum. If the minimum is not met, you will be contacted by Blandford Nature Center and notified of your refund options.