Wards Lawyers announced as 2023 sponsor of Forest Therapy program

January 13, 2023 – Kawartha Conservation is thrilled to announce Wards Lawyers has come onboard as the main sponsor of the 2023 Forest Therapy program. The program, which is designed to promote mental health and wellness in the community, will kick off with a special event on Bell Let's Talk Day, January 25^th, with three forest therapy sessions for participants to experience the therapeutic benefits of nature.

“At Wards Lawyers, we understand the importance of mental health and the impact it has on individuals, families, and the community as a whole,” said C.E.O. Melissa Wemyss. “We believe that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on mental health, and we are proud to support the Kawartha Conservation Forest Therapy program, which provides participants with the opportunity to connect with nature and improve their mental well-being.”

Research has shown that spending time in nature can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being. The Forest Therapy program, which includes guided walks in Kawartha Conservation’s beautiful conservation areas, allows participants to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with the natural world. The program also includes activities such as mindfulness and meditation, which can further enhance the therapeutic benefits of nature.

“Our commitment to the community goes beyond providing legal services,” said Wemyss. “We believe that by giving back to the community and supporting programs like the Forest Therapy program, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.”

Thanks to Wards Lawyers’ sponsorship of the program, throughout the year, participation in the forest therapy walks through Kawartha Conservation are by donation, with all proceeds being donated to the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge Branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association.

“We are so pleased to be able to partner with Wards Lawyers for 2023 to provide Kawartha Conservation's Forest Therapy program at no cost to the community and can’t think of a better time to kick off the 2023 forest therapy sessions, than on Bell Let's Talk Day, and we hope to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and the benefits of spending time in nature,” said Kristie Virgoe, Director of Stewardship and CA Lands, and a certified forest therapy guide.

“Bell Let's Talk Day is an annual event that aims to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding mental health,” added Virgoe. “The day, which takes place on January 25th, encourages people to have conversations about mental health and to support those who are struggling with mental health issues.

Kawartha Conservation is committed to promoting mental health and wellness in the community and believe that the Forest Therapy program is a valuable resource for those looking to improve their mental well-being.

To sign up for any of the forest therapy sessions on January 25, or subsequent sessions in the coming months, visit us online at www.kawarthaconservation.com/ForestTherapy