Nature as Medicine: Forest Immersion Experience
Fairfield Osborn Preserve
Sat, May 2, 3:00 pm
– 5:00 pm
Admission Fees: none
Join us for a stress-relieving Nature as Medicine session on the SSU Fairfield Osborn Preserve. The session will be led by Sarah Murphy, MD, a Family and Integrative Medicine physician who works at the SSU Student Health Center.
This will be a mellow, calm, tech-free immersion in nature where you will pay close attention to sensory details around you to develop a sense of presence and connection.
Studies on forest immersion experiences like this have demonstrated they decrease stress levels, anxiety, and low mood, and increase attention, feelings of connectedness and well-being, and even help boost the immune system. We hope the experience will help you feel refreshed, grounded, and mentally recharged.
If you have questions reach out to Dr. Sarah Murphy at (707) 664-2921 or [email protected]
Presenter
Sarah Murphy, MD is a Family and Integrative Physician who works part-time at the SSU Student Health Center. She is passionate about the health and wellness of her patients, and our planet. Dr. Murphy is a licensed Forest Therapy Guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.
Logistics
This is an electronic device-free experience.
This event will be a leisurely walk rather than a hike.
- Fairfield Osborn Preserve is a 15-minute drive from Sonoma State's main campus, on Lichau Road in Penngrove. Driving directions are available here in English and in Spanish.
- Parking is limited so please consider carpooling, and park close together. Let us know if you plan to carpool so we can open more registration spots accordingly.
- The preserve gate will be unlocked 15-minutes prior to the start time of the event. The preserve gate will be locked 15-minutes after the start of the event time. It is not possible to join the event late or to leave the event early.
- We will meet outside at the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Learning Center, which is across the footbridge on the east side of the parking lot.
- A restroom, sink for hand-washing, and potable water are available on site.
- Participants must sign a waiver upon arrival.
- This event is appropriate for minors 17 years and older. All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian for the entire event (the parent's/guardian's email can be used for their registration).
- Pets and smoking are not permitted.
- Due to narrow, rocky, unpaved trails, sturdy shoes for hiking are required and no strollers are permitted.
- This is a rain or shine event, though severe storms may cancel.
- No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate.
What to Bring
Please dress warmly as you will be stillness for some time. Sturdy footwear for hiking is required. Please bring a backpack, a water bottle, and snacks for the trail. Layered clothing, long pants, toe-covered shoes, rain gear, a hat, sun protection, and insect protection are recommended. Walking sticks are welcome.
How to Sign Up
See registration links above. Each person 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.