The Healing Power of Forest Bathing: A Sacred Return to Nature

“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” — John Muir

Eight years ago, I gently stepped away from the beachside rhythms of life and moved into the quiet embrace of the forest. What began as a lifestyle shift became a profound spiritual awakening. Living immersed in nature has softened me, reshaped me, and returned me to my truest essence.

At first, it was simple: hands in the soil, weeding and regenerating the land, bringing the native flora back to life. Yet beneath the surface, a deeper transformation was unfolding. As I made space for light to return to the earth, I was also clearing away the clutter within—restoring my nervous system, quietening my mind, and aligning more deeply with my own natural rhythms.

This journey became the seed for what I now offer to others: Forest Bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku, the ancient Japanese practice of immersing oneself in the atmosphere of the forest.

What is Forest Bathing?

Unlike hiking or bushwalking, Forest Bathing isn’t about getting from A to B. It’s a slow, sensory-rich experience that invites you to pause, breathe, and notice. There’s no need to achieve anything—just to be. This gentle yet powerful practice lowers cortisol levels, balances the nervous system, and improves mental clarity and emotional resilience.

Modern science is beginning to catch up with what Indigenous cultures and spiritual traditions have known for centuries: nature heals.

“Walk as if you are kissing the Earth with your feet.” — Thích Nhất Hạnh

Forest Bathing as Inclusive Healing

Thanks to the Active & Healthy Program and now through the support of Gold Coast Recreation & Sport, I am honoured to guide weekly inclusive Forest Bathing sessions for neurodivergent women at the Gold Coast Botanic Gardens.

Together with my dear friend and co-facilitator Gabriela Groom, we hold space for a dozen beautiful women each Friday—offering a nurturing blend of Forest Bathing, gentle yoga, breathwork, and sound healing.

These sessions are sensory-friendly, trauma-informed, and accessible. There’s no pressure to “perform,” no need to mask. We create a space where every woman can feel safe to connect with nature, with community, and with herself—just as she is.

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” — John Muir

Why Forest Bathing Matters for Neurodivergent Individuals

For neurodivergent people—those who experience the world differently, whether through autism, ADHD, sensory processing sensitivity, or other unique neurotypes—mainstream wellness spaces can often feel overwhelming or inaccessible.

Forest Bathing offers:

🌿 Gentle, slow-paced movement

🌿 A quiet, non-judgmental space

🌿 Opportunities for sensory regulation

🌿 Connection without pressure

🌿 Healing through presence, not performance

Nature doesn’t ask us to be anyone but ourselves. In the forest, we’re all equal—coexisting in harmony, breathing the same air, rooted in the same Earth.

Reclaiming Our Connection to Gaia

These offerings are more than just classes—they are rituals of reconnection, helping us remember that we are nature. When we slow down in the forest, we return to a state of wholeness that is our birthright.

The forest holds us without judgment. She welcomes every breath, every step, every silence.

“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” — Albert Einstein

Join Us in the Forest

If your heart is longing for peace, if you’re seeking community, or if you know someone who could benefit from a gentle, inclusive space in nature—we invite you to join us.

💚 Weekly sessions: For neurodivergent women, every Friday at the Gold Coast Botanic Gardens (supported by Gold Coast Recreation & Sport)

🌿 Monthly community sessions: Open to all, through the City of Gold Coast’s Active & Healthy Program

Because everyone deserves access to calm.

To care.

To community.

To the healing rhythm of the forest.

🌿 FAQ: Forest Bathing & Inclusive Nature Practices

Q: What is Forest Bathing?

Forest Bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice of slowing down and immersing yourself in the sensory experience of the forest. It’s not about hiking or fitness—it’s a form of nature therapy that supports mental clarity, emotional resilience, and nervous system regulation.

Q: How is Forest Bathing different from bushwalking or hiking?

Unlike hiking, Forest Bathing isn’t about reaching a destination. It’s a slow, mindful experience guided by the senses—touch, smell, sound, and sight. The focus is on being, not doing.

Q: Is Forest Bathing suitable for neurodivergent individuals?

Yes, absolutely. Our sessions are specifically designed to be inclusive, sensory-friendly, and trauma-informed, making them accessible for those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing sensitivity, or anyone who benefits from a gentle and quiet space.

Q: Do I need experience with yoga, meditation or mindfulness?

Not at all. Forest Bathing is for everyone. You don’t need to be flexible, spiritual or experienced—just open to slowing down and connecting with the natural world.

Q: Where are these sessions held?

We offer:

 • 🌱 Weekly Forest Bathing sessions for neurodivergent women at the Gold Coast Botanic Gardens, in collaboration with Gold Coast Recreation & Sport.

 • 🌿 Monthly community Forest Bathing experiences open to all, as part of the City of Gold Coast’s Active & Healthy Program.

Q: What are the benefits of Forest Bathing?

Some of the many scientifically and spiritually supported benefits include:

 • Reduced stress and anxiety

 • Improved mood and emotional balance

 • Better sleep quality

 • Enhanced sensory awareness

 • A deeper connection to self, nature and community

Q: How can I join a session?

Visit our Forest Bathing Page to check out upcoming dates & send us a message through contact us page or follow us on Instagram @essenceofliving to see upcoming events and registration details