Potomac Overlook Regional Park

Experience forest bathing to connect more deeply with nature and release stress surrounded by the beauty of colorful fall foliage! Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is a way to immerse your senses in the natural world. Slow down, relax, and join certified forest bathing guide Ilana Rubin of Kindred Nature for a guided slow wander with simple sensory and mindful activities.

Forest bathing, also known as forest therapy or nature therapy, is a practice of immersing ourselves in the natural world through our senses. Through a series of invitations - gentle mindful and sensory activity prompts - participants can slow down, tune into their senses and the present moment, and reconnect with nature. Through this practice, we can enjoy some of the many benefits of forest bathing, such as reducing stress, restoring focus, boosting creativity and mood, and supporting immune health. Learn more about forest bathing in this video introduction to forest bathing from the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs, or this video on forest bathing experiences and benefits from CBS Mornings.

This forest bathing program at Potomac Overlook Regional Park will weave together several activities, including guided meditation, slow guided walking, sustainably sourced tea, and individual and group activities that connect us with nature through sights, sounds, textures, smells, imagination, and feeling. The guide will provide invitations or prompts for nature connection practices such as new ways to learn about a tree or creating temporary nature art. All of the invitations are adaptable for each person to participate in the way that is best for them. The forest bathing walk will cover less than a mile at a slow pace on paved and unpaved gentle trails. All adults are very welcome to register and join us for this program. There is no background, experience, or skill level needed.

Our guide for this program is Ilana Rubin, a forest bathing and nature therapy guide trained and certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs. Ilana has been guiding forest bathing since 2021 when she founded Kindred Nature to help restore holistic health for people and nature. She has guided events for diverse groups and for organizations including the US Forest Service, the GW Office of Integrative Medicine and Health, and the Potomac Riverkeeper Network. Now, we are excited for her to continue Potomac Overlook Regional Park’s newest program for adults to boost wellness and enjoy our beautiful forest. Please join us! 

Important participant guidelines:

• $35 per participant for ages 18 and up. Any program attendee 18 years of age or older is considered a participant. No prior experience is necessary. Meet at the Nature Center.
• Arrive by 9:50am to ensure the program starts on time. Note that it takes a few minutes to walk from the parking lot to the Nature Center.
• Dress appropriately for outdoor weather; the event will proceed rain or shine unless hazardous weather is forecasted.
• Bring a water bottle and (optional) snacks for yourself.
• Notify us of any allergies or accommodation requests in advance by emailing kindrednatureguide@gmail.com.
• Registration ends two days before the program. A refund may be provided if your space is able to be filled from a waitlist. Refunds are not provided within 72 hours of the program. For any registration questions, please contact potomac@nvrpa.org. 
• ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST PREREGISTER.