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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Join us for an interactive Campfire Kitchen experience led by Jenny Veal!  Dive into the world of outdoor cooking as we introduce you to the art of crafting delicious meals over an open flame.  This hands-on workshop will feature the delightful preparation of cast-iron naan bread paired with our signature "Marry Me Chickpea" dish, perfect for satisfying those hearty appetites after a day of adventures.

Jenny is a graduate of the Culinary Management Program and brings years of experience from the food and hospitality industry.  Her passion for cooking open air in Northwest Ontario's outdoors is a true love and we can't wait to share it with you.  

During the workshop, you'll not only learn new recipes but also experience the slow, enjoyable process of cooking over a campfire.  Throughout the session we will cover essential food safety, proper meal preparation techniques and packing strategies for your overnight camping or day trips. Learn how to keep your food sustainable in a cooler while ensuring it's stored correctly.  We'll also discuss bear safety tips to make your outdoor experience worry-free and teach you how to clean up after your campfire to leave no trace behind.  

Whether your a seasoned camper or new to outdoor cooking, this workshop promises to elevate you culinary skills while fostering a love for nature.  Join us for a deliciously memorable experience!

Summer 2026 session- Tuesday July 21st, 1:00pm-3:00pm


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Session three 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- Tuesday July 28th, 1:00pm-3:00pm


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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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