Highlights of the Guided Forest Therapy Walk

On October 2nd and 3rd, 2023, International Forestry Students’ Association (IFSA)-UBC Chapter co-hosted the Guided Forest Therapy Walk amidst the serene Pacific Spirit Regional Park, was nothing short of a refreshing journey. Guided by the experienced Alex Gesse from Forest Bathing & Forest Therapy Training (FTHub) and Yawei Wei of the Faculty of Forestry at UBC, participants engaged in various nature connection activities, including meditation with expert guidance and relaxation exercises. The central focus of the walk was those significant “moments” of nature connection and engagement, fostering emotional connections that, in turn, promote pro-environmental and pro-social attitudes, interaction, and social cohesion. The forest therapy guides excelled in helping participants open their senses, rekindling their relationship with the land and nature throughout the entire experience.

A Collaborative Event

On October 2nd, a panel discussion titled “Healing in the Heart of Nature: Panel Discourse and Forest Therapy Guided Walk” took place from 1:00 to 2:30 PM. Following the morning’s rejuvenating forest therapy, the discussion delved into exploring how this practice holistically reduces stress and enhances the mental well-being of both students and faculty members. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in a dialogue that included firsthand experiential insights, scientific perspectives, and a strategic vision for seamlessly integrating nature’s calming influence into the academic sphere. The esteemed panel featured speakers like Alex Gesse and prominent participants, including Dr. Guangyu Wang and his MINT Team.

Continuing the exploration, on October 3rd, a small seminar offered a guest lecture by Alex Gesse from 3:30 to 5:00 PM. The topic, “The FTHub Method and Liquid Interactions Model (LIM) for Forest Therapy and Forest Bathing,” unveiled an interactive and integrative framework for social and clinical interventions. This academic exploration of the transformative field was a captivating journey guided by Alex, drawing from a wealth of expertise to navigate through various dimensions of Forest Therapy.

Once again, the IFSA-UBC Chapter extends heartfelt gratitude to all our wonderful participants for joining us, as well as our incredible guides and special guests for making the event truly memorable. Stay tuned for more exciting IFSA-UBC Chapter events in the near future. Your participation and support drive our mission, and we can’t wait to share more enriching experiences with you!