Kawartha Conservation hosts FREE Forest Therapy events in support of Mental Health

JANUARY 10, 2024 - LINDSAY, ONTARIO - Kawartha Conservation is excited to announce two Forest Therapy events taking place on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, coinciding with Bell Let's Talk Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health. These free events are designed to promote mental well-being by immersing participants in the calming embrace of nature, all while supporting the Canadian Mental Health Association through voluntary donations.

Join us for a transformative experience led by certified Forest Therapy Guide, Kristie Virgoe, as we explore the serene beauty of Ken Reid Conservation Area while focusing on the importance of mental health. Participants can expect a 90-minute mindful journey that connects them with nature and allows them to unplug from the daily stressors of life.

Studies have consistently shown that spending time in nature not only reduces stress and enhances mood but also has a positive impact on cognitive function and creativity. Nature immersion has been linked to improved memory, heightened attention, and increased problem-solving abilities, demonstrating the profound benefits of connecting with the natural world.

Forest bathing, as practiced in these events, is a contemplative and sensory experience designed to help participants fully embrace the present moment. It is not a form of exercise, hiking, or jogging; instead, it encourages individuals to engage their senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch to foster relaxation and release stress and distractions.

Kristie Virgoe, Director of Stewardship and Conservation Lands at Kawartha Conservation and a certified Forest Therapy Guide emphasized the importance of these events.

"Nature has an incredible capacity to nurture our mental well-being, and our Forest Therapy events offer a unique opportunity for people to experience the restorative power of the natural world,” said Virgoe. “On Bell Let's Talk Day, we want to encourage open conversations about mental health while providing a serene and supportive environment for individuals to connect with nature."

Both Forest Therapy events are free of charge, but voluntary donations will be collected to support the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association. Kawartha Conservation invites everyone to participate in these transformative experiences that blend the healing properties of nature with the slow, mindful movements of forest therapy.

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Location: Ken Reid Conservation Area
Time: 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. OR 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Admission: Free (Donations encouraged for CMHA)

For more information about Kawartha Conservation and the Forest Therapy events, please visit https://www.kawarthaconservation.com/ or contact Kristie Virgoe at kvirgoe@kawarthaconservation.com or by phone at 705,328.2271 Ext 214.