Nature And Forest Therapy For Health And Wellbeing Of Individuals
Come and experience the benefits of nature and forest therapy at this special event; lead by Namyun Kil, PhD. Namyun is an Assistant Professor of Therapeutic Recreation at UW-La Crosse and a Certified Forest Therapy Guide. UWL undergraduate student, Cora Vogt, will also be assisting with this program.
Who can participate?
This program is open to all individuals with disabilities. Veterans are encouraged to participate. Trac chairs are available on a limited basis courtesy of n.a.s.a.
- Spina bifida
- Spinal cord injury
- Cerebral palsy
- Congenital limb issues
- Amputations
- Leg length discrepancy
- Short stature
- Muscular dystrophy
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Motor dyspraxia
- Limited range of motion
- Balance issues
- Post stroke
- Blind and visual impairment
- Down syndrome
- Autism spectrum
- Learning disabilities
- Cognitive impairments
- Low muscle tone
- Other congenital syndromes
Session 1: ages 7-11
When: Monday, June 20th, 9:00-11:30 am
Where: Hixon Forest
Session Fee: Free
Registration: Please fill out the online registration form, no later than one week before the session. click here!
Session 2: ages 12-17
When: Tuesday, June 21st, 9:00-11:30 am
Where: Hixon Forest
Session Fee: Free
Registration: Please fill out the online registration form, no later than one week before the session. click here!
Session 3: Veterans
When: Wednesday/Thursday, June 22nd-23rd, 9:00-11:30 am
Where: Hixon Forest
Session Fee: Free
Registration: Please fill out the online registration form, no later than one week before the session. click here!
What does this program include?
Each session will include mindful movement within the forest. We will use controlled breathing and exercises to fully engage with the forest- using all of our senses. Each session will conclude with a tea ceremony.
Questions?
Please contact Namyun at nkil@uwlax.edu.
What is forest bathing?
Forest Bathing is known in Japan as “Shinrin-yoku” and in Korea as “Sanrim-yok.” The primary goal of forest bathing is not physical exercise. Instead, forest bathers have a specific intention to reconnecting with nature and themselves in a therapeutic manner. They seek to move through the forest mindfully, cultivating sensory connections with the landscape, build active communication with the land, and allows the land to infiltrate its message deeply into their hearts and minds.
What are the benefits or forest bathing?
- Stress Reduction
- Improved Mood
- Reduce Anxiety
- Increased working memory
- Improved Cognition
- Improved Immune System
Photo gallery
