Forest Ecotherapy

Fairfield Osborn Preserve
5:00 am – 9:00 am

Admission Fees: none

Registration Links:
Register for this event

*RESCHEDULED TO MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11TH FROM 1-5 P.M.* Ever wished for a less stressful, more fulfilling life without being tethered to distracting technology? Join TreeGirl as we spend a day of re-enchantment engaging in multi-sensory experiences and simple ceremony to reconnect with the wisdom of forest. Learn skills to leave techno-stress behind and rebond with nature for health and well-being.

Leader

Julianne Skai Arbor, Forest Ecotherapy Program Director. Julianne (aka TreeGirl), is a certified UC naturalist, ISA Certified Arborist, forest therapy guide, award winning author, and Program Director of Forest Ecotherapy: www.ForestEcotherapy.com. She has been a multi-disciplinary conservation educator for over 20 years.

Details

Our cultural over-dependence upon technology is causing the very real and rampant health condition of techno-stress (which includes anxiety, mental fatigue, physical strain, insomnia, irritability, and depression). It is well researched that stress in general negatively affects one’s immune, cardio-vascular, and endocrine systems, leading to further physical and mental disorders and chronic illness.

One of the best ways we can be engaged and effective in solving our environmental challenges is to actually un-attach ourselves from distracting technology and re-activate our sensory awareness and listen to the wisdom of forest. You may have heard about Forest Bathing as a type of mindful walk in nature with proven mental and physical health benefits. Research shows that spending just 2 hours a week in a forest can decrease stress symptoms and even increase our natural cancer-fighting cells by 40%, thus acting as preventative medicine. Imagine if we spent every day in the forest!  

This 4-hour walk will help us create a reciprocal alliance with the trees of the forest community. We will begin promptly in the Osborn Preserve parking lot, and leave behind what we don’t need – our cell phones and our worries – for the day. We’ll start by setting intentions, giving gratitude for the species of this special place, and continue with pauses along with way, including resting directly on the forest floor and enjoying the autumn season’s edible gifts. Local tree expert TreeGirl will teach simple skills to remedy the negative effects of techno-stress and develop an ongoing relationship — an allyship — with the trees of the forest. As we learn to bond with nature, as opposed to technology, we become more actively engaged and empowered earth allies. Before saying goodbye, we’ll review our day and learn how we can continue to use our new skills after we leave the preserve.

Logistics

You must be at least 18 years old to participate. No previous experience or knowledge is required.

We will be hiking 1.5 miles with approximately 200 foot elevation gain.

Fairfield Osborn Preserve is a 15-minute drive from Sonoma State's main campus, on Lichau Road in Penngrove. Parking is limited so please consider carpooling. Driving directions will be provided in your registration confirmation and email.

Participants must sign a waiver upon arrival. Pets and smoking are not permitted.

A restroom, potable water and microwave are available on site.

This is a rain or shine event.

What to Bring

Please bring clothing appropriate for the day’s weather including long pants, good shoes to hike in, sun and insect protection, a water bottle with at least 1 liter capacity, and a hearty lunch. Joyfully leave your cell phones off! 

How to Sign Up

See registration link below. Each participant should register separately.

This event is free of charge.

About the Center

Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.