Northern Nature Connect (NNC)

What is Forest Therapy?



Forest Therapy is based on the Japanese practice of "Shinrin-yoku" (Forest Bathing), which is a form of therapeutic relaxation in which your senses are immersed in nature to relax, heighten awareness and form a deeper connection to nature. As a certified guide I believe in the healing power of nature. Walks provide an intentional space to slow down, breathe deeply and remember the quiet strength that lives within you. 

What to Expect:

• What it's not- a naturalist walk or fitness hike
• What it is- mindful time spent among the trees and together in a nature loving community
• 2 hours in duration, 1 mile or less in length over fairly easy terrain.
• Feeling the benefits of spending time with nature including boosted immunity, reduce stress and inflammation, improved mood, lower blood pressure, activate parasympathetic nervous system and so many more!

Forest Therapy walks are guided, relaxed, sensory experiences full of wander and wonder. We slow down, come into the present moment, open the senses and settle the mind.  Throughout the walk I will offer invitations, allowing you to pause, take in the pleasures and curiosity of the forest and surroundings and have time for personal reflection and sharing. Each walk is concluded with a tea ceremony.  The Forest is the therapist, the guide just opens the door.

I look forward to going on an amazing journey of nature discovery with you!  

*This event requires walking through the forest on trails and will be fully outdoors. There is also no washroom facility at the location.

Summer 2026 Session- Tuesday July 14th, 1:00pm-3:00pm


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Session two will lead us to the shaded shores of the McIntyre River on campus.  Join me amongst the trees to explore Creekside Creations.  This week we will engage with our creative spirits and let nature inspire us! We will have several nature inspired craft activities for you to choose from and have a beautiful and unique creation to take home with you.  

*This event requires walking through the forest on trails and will be fully outdoors. There is also no washroom facility at the location.

Summer 2026 session- TBD


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Did you know we have a beautiful Labyrinth right on campus?  Join me this week as we welcome a special guest and Lakehead Alumni Dr. David Greenwood. Dr. Greenwood will share with us about the history, uses and benefits of the Labyrinth and guide us through a walk.  No experience required!  

Following our Labyrinth experience we will reflect together and enjoy some light snacks and refreshments under the shade of the birch trees. 

This event is fully outdoors.  Minimal walking and washrooms are nearby.

Summer 2026 session- TBD


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The last NNC session will take you on an off campus excursion to the local McKellar Island Bird Observatory. We will learn about migratory songbirds and their Save the SongBirds Project. You will get to see first hand how they catch and release the birds, band them for tracking of species and you will even get to hold and release a bird as part of the experience! Our hosts John and Brady will tour us through the area and talk about the important connections between the land, native species and songbirds.

*This event requires walking through the forest on trails and will be fully outdoors. There is no washroom facility at the location. Please dress according to the weather and bring some bug spray!

Summer 2026 Session- Thursday August 13th, 8:50am- 12:00pm (bus leaves Agora at 9:00am sharp)

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