New Dawn Nature Wellness, LLC
Forest Therapy in North West Pennsylvania
What is Forest Therapy?
Forest therapy is a transformative practice that goes beyond a mere stroll through the woods. It invites individuals to immerse themselves in the natural world, engaging all five senses to foster a deeper connection with the environment. This mindful experience encourages participants to slow down, breathe, and observe the intricate beauty that surrounds them, from the rustling of leaves to the scent of damp earth. By attuning themselves to the soothing qualities of nature, individuals discover not only a sense of tranquility but also a pathway to emotional and physical healing. Forest therapy emphasizes intentionality, allowing one to appreciate the present moment and cultivate a profound sense of well-being in the embrace of nature's wonders.
West Park Nature Center - New Castle, PA
956 Old Youngstown Road
Located between Highways 422 & 224 and has 2 entrances.
Cobblehaus at the Falls Taproom - Mercer, PA
1015 Leesburg Station Road
Located just east of Highway 19 on 7 acres of beautiful land.
Providing Forest Therapy Walks and Indoor Sylvotherapy Sessions in New Castle PA, Lawrence County, and Surrounding areas.
Click on any Register button to see all currently scheduled walks & sessions.
New dates & locations will be added as they are scheduled.
Space is limited. Open to Adults, Youth 14+ (with an adult).
Forest Therapy Walk Locations
Mystic Angels Reiki, LLC - Ellwood City, PA
314 5th Street
In the heart of downtown
The Holistic Dragonfly - Bridgeville, PA
1840 Mayview Road, Suite 208
*Coming in September
Indoor Sylvotherapy Locations
What to expect on a Forest Therapy walk.
No two walks will be the same! Factors such as: the season, the location, the time of day, the weather conditions, and where each person is on their journey will all contribute to the over-all feel of a session. Walks will be a highly personal and unique experience for every participant. It is not a hike but more of an inner journey as we seek to reconnect with nature. With that in mind, the following format will be loosely followed as your guide invites you to engage in your senses throughout the session.
A typical length of time for Forest Therapy is about 2 1/2 hours for small groups of 6 - 12 participants. Much of the time will be spent standing or sitting next to a particular tree, leaning against a trunk or lying on the grass, as you choose, at each stopping point along the way.
Distance of walks will vary, based on which session you chose, often covering a 1/2 mile - 1 mile in total.
Upon arrival, it will be required for you to sign a waiver of liability to participate in the walk.
To begin, you will be invited to slow down and become fully present through mindful breathing and light stretching as we leave behind any daily stresses. We will silence any electronic devices to prevent distractions for the group.
Slowly and quietly we will move along the trail where you will be invited to choose a sit spot at each stop to engage in one of our senses. As you are called back to the group, you will have the opportunity - if you choose, to share your observations. Each of these exercises will last approximately 20 minutes.
Activities may be included on walks and will vary based on specific themes, locations, or other factors.
The culmination of the session will be a Tea Ceremony. This is an opportunity for us to show our gratitude as we remember that we are part of nature and reflect upon our experience in the forest.
How to prepare for your Forest Therapy walk.
Plan to wear comfortable layers of clothing appropriate for the expected weather conditions: Rain jackets or warm coats & hats, etc.
Footwear should be sturdy for uneven walking and something you don't mind getting muddy or wet.
On hot sunny days you may need a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, or insect repellant.
A refillable water bottle is essential.
Please ensure that you have eaten and visited a restroom facility before the walk start time. Not all locations will have restrooms nearby and I will note that in each walk listing.
Ideal weather conditions rarely happen. Fog, clouds, rain, snow, and bright sunshine all offer different experiences and unique facets of the forest for us to discover.
Sessions are only postponed or canceled if temperatures are excessively hot or cold, high winds are expected, or thunderstorms are forecast. You will be notified at least 2 hours in advance via email if known conditions warrant cancellation. In this case, you will be offered to select a different date or a refund.
*Disclaimer:
The information provided on newdawnnaturewellnessllc.com is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. I am not a medical professional, and it is important to understand that the services offered do not replace or substitute for professional medical consultation. Anyone considering scheduling services with New Dawn Nature Wellness, LLC should first consult with their physician to ensure they are physically capable of participating in their chosen activities. Your health and well-being are of utmost importance, and it is essential to seek medical guidance before engaging in any wellness practices. Thank you for understanding the importance of these precautions.
What to expect at an Indoor Sylvotherapy Session.
Indoor Sylvotherapy offers many of the same wellness benefits as an outdoor walk while taking less time than traditional Forest Therapy. With specially chosen live plants, aromatherapy, and other nature elements your guide sets a scene to encourage tranquility for the group. Through guided meditative and visualization exercises participants are able to experience relaxation and stress reduction as they engage each of their senses. Your session may include activities such as journaling or an opportunity for creative expression. The session will end with a Tea Ceremony providing moments of reflection and embracing gratitude for our natural world.
Indoor Sylvotherapy is a great option for those who have a busy schedule, who have limited mobility, or want to boost the benefits of Forest Therapy between walks in nature. These sessions have the added benefit of being free of weather concerns.
Very little preparation is required for your participation. Simply register to secure your spot and come in comfortable clothing. Shoes are optional during the session. Bring along your water bottle and a desire to enhance your overall well-being.