For more information, please visit https://tfb.institute/

This course is for those interested in learning more about forest bathing, as well as deepen their connection with nature, and improving one’s sensitivity. Throughout the 7-day intensive program, we will cover the science and mechanisms behind forest bathing, as well as teach you how to successfully lead Forest Bathing+ sessions. This course should be able to teach you more about yourself and your connection with nature, as well as how to assist others in connecting with nature.

The 6-months’ ongoing training period will be dedicated to self-study and case studies. We will ask you to provide 6 case studies in that period. We will also ask you to carry out risk assessments for the sites where you have chosen to hold your case studies.

In the 6-months’ ongoing training period, we will also have monthly meetings (you might want to connect with us on Skype or any other online system if being present in person is not possible). These meetings will be dedicated to covering questions and deepening your understanding of the material covered. We will also be providing you with some useful information which might help you with your ongoing Forest Bathing+ events. Some of our meetings will also be trips to new locations to explore how Forest Bathing+ can be carried out in different conditions.

Assessment: there will be one practical assessment, one theoretical assessment, and a few self-assessed quizzes that we will have throughout the course. The quizzes will allow you to understand areas of strength and weakness in your understanding of the theoretical part of the course.

As a theoretical assessment, there will be a 2-hour exam during the 6-months ongoing training period. During a practical assessment, one of our teachers will be present at one of your case study events, and will assess your ability to lead Forest Bathing+ sessions.

Upon the completion of 6 case studies within the six months, as well as passing a theoretical and a practical exam, you will be issued with a certificate in Forest Bathing+. You will then be able to get insured and charge for your Forest Bathing+ events.

–    Introduction to Forest Bathing+

–    The Forest Bathing Institute’s approach to forest bathing.

–    Physiology: sympathetic vs parasympathetic nervous system; heart rate variability.

–    Stretching Inner Awareness – the process of growth.

–    History of forest bathing and nature therapy from ancient times to the modern day.

–    The science behind forest bathing, showing how forest bathing works, and the benefits of practicing forest bathing and spending time in nature. Going deeper into some of the Japanese studies on the benefits of forest bathing.

–    Forest bathing & nature therapy in different countries. Social prescriptions and the role of forest bathing in social policy. Exploring the concept of the Nature Pyramid.

–    Neuroplasticity and how it relates to forest bathing.

–    Mindfulness elements in Forest Bathing+

–    Wood Wide Web. The science behind it, and how it is related to Forest Bathing+ practice.

–    Earthing. The science behind it, and possible benefits, including looking at some of the core studies. The role of earthing in Forest Bathing+.

–    Forest Bathing+ elements. This is the most significant part of the course and will cover all the aspects in Forest Bathing+ events, including different sensory exercises and how different senses affect our health and wellbeing, natural aromatherapy, colour therapy, mindfulness and meditation, earthing, and group sharing. We will learn how to carry out exercises while practicing daily in the 7-day intensive training period. We will look at the science behind these elements, and learn to appropriately react to some of the most common reactions that some of the participants might have.

–    How to lead groups. Looking at different scenarios that you might come across with different people. Learning how to deal with challenging situations and emergency procedures. Exploring the terms of “active resistors” and “unwilling participants”.

–    How to construct a Forest Bathing+ session.

–    Rules of conduct in a forest/natural environment.

–    Neurobiology and our view on plants.

–    Nature Awareness and Environmental Concern.

–    Working with plants. Covering some of the most common native plant species and how to identify them.

–    Forest Bathing+ in different weather conditions.

–    Positive and negative ions. The benefits of negative ions for health.

–    Forest Bathing+ for different groups.

–    Forest Bathing+ Rules of Conduct and Practical Tips.

–    Possible risks associated with forest bathing. Preparing and storing information on clients. Assessing when Forest Bathing+ is suitable for clients. Developing an Initial Interview form for clients. How to interview clients and answer any questions before the session.

–    Learning to write Terms and Conditions for your events.

–    Finding a suitable place for Forest Bathing+ events.

–    How to write a risk assessment for a site.

–    Forest Bathing+ and nature connection in everyday life.

–    Suggested equipment for Forest Bathing+ sessions.

–    Advertising and book-keeping.

Cost: £2,500. £500 – non-refundable deposit to secure a place. The full amount should be paid at least four weeks before the start of the course.

The price includes manuals, training, assessments, snacks and drinks in the training location during the 7-day training period, and meetings in the 6-months ongoing training period.

The price does not include travel costs, accommodation costs, meal costs, insurance costs, or any other costs.

Scholarship Scheme

Qualification or lengthy experience in teaching mindfulness and/or meditation. At least 6-months’ experience in teaching mindfulness and/or meditation.

Please, note that we offer an additional module to the Forest Bathing+ training. Our 3-day Teaching Mindfulness and Meditation Course will provide key skills related to Forest Bathing+ – the cost of this additional module is £350.00.

7-day Intensive Training: Monday 5th August – Sunday 11th of August.

Ongoing 6-month training: Sunday 11th of August – Tuesday the 11th of February 2020

Training will be held in Churt, Surrey.