No. Forest Therapy isn't about covering distance or reaching a destination. We walk slowly—less than 1-2 km over 2–3 hours—with plenty of opportunities to pause, notice, sit and simply be in nature.

Each session includes a series of gentle, guided invitations that encourage you to engage your senses and connect with the landscape in your own way. There is no meditation experience or fitness level required. We finish with a shared tea ceremony, offering time to reflect before returning to everyday life.

Your experience

• Arrive and settle in

• Slow guided walk through nature

• Gentle sensory invitations

• Quiet moments for reflection

• Tea ceremony in the forest

• Return feeling restored

Benefits include:

• Increased happiness and positive mood

• Reduced anxiety

• Enhanced energy level and better concentration

• Improved sleep

• Reduction in cortisol levels (stress hormone)

• Boost in immune function

• Reduced blood pressure

• Lowered pulse rate

• Active exposure to anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbvia and anti-viral substances emitted by trees and plants (phytoncides)

Not at all. Forest Therapy is suitable for most people with a basic level of mobility. The pace is slow and there are regular opportunities to rest. If you have mobility concerns, please contact us before booking so we can discuss whether a particular walk is suitable.

Our guided Forest Therapy walks are held at beautiful natural locations across the Mornington Peninsula, including bushland reserves and peaceful gardens. Each location is carefully chosen for its accessibility, beauty and opportunity to connect with nature.

Please dress comfortably for the weather. We recommend:

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Layers of clothing (gloves, beanies, warm socks in cold weather)

• Hat and sunscreen in warmer months

• Rain jacket if showers are forecast

• Insect repellent if desired

Bring:

• A water bottle and snacks

• Any personal medications

• A small backpack

• Something warm to sit on (a small blanket or…)

Forest Therapy can be a wonderful experience in light rain, often making the forest feel even more alive. Walks will only be cancelled if conditions become unsafe due to severe weather, high winds, bushfire risk or park closures.

Absolutely. Many participants are trying Forest Therapy for the first time. No previous experience with mindfulness, meditation or nature connection is needed.

Forest Therapy walks are generally suitable for ages 12+. Please check the event description before booking.

Definitely. Many people attend solo. Forest Therapy offers a welcoming, supportive environment, and there's never any pressure to socialise or share personal experiences.

No. While there are opportunities to share if you wish, everything is optional. Many participants enjoy spending much of the walk in comfortable silence.

No. Forest Therapy is a wellbeing practice, not counselling or psychotherapy. While many people find it deeply restorative, it is not a substitute for professional mental health care.

Your walks are led by Chloe Lines, an accredited Forest Therapy Guide with a background in conservation, community engagement and connecting people with nature through guided experiences.

Most public sessions run between 2-3 hours, allowing plenty of time to slow down, immerse yourself in nature and finish with a tea ceremony. Please check the event description before booking.

To create a calm, personal experience, group sizes average around 10 people

Yes. Private Forest Therapy experiences are available for:

• Friends and family

• Workplace wellbeing days

• Community groups

• Retreats

• Corporate teams

• Special occasions

Please get in touch to discuss your group and preferred location.

Yes. Forest Therapy has been widely researched internationally and is recognised as an evidence-based public health practice that supports physical and mental wellbeing. Studies have shown benefits including reduced stress, improved mood, better sleep and enhanced feelings of connection with nature. For more information see INFTA - https://infta.net/discover/research/

Absolutely. Like a massage, yoga class or meditation session, Forest Therapy is an investment in your wellbeing. What makes it unique is that it combines the calming effects of spending time in nature with gentle guided practices that help you slow down, reduce stress and reconnect with yourself.

A typical Forest Therapy session lasts between 2-3 hours, giving you the time and space to truly unwind. Many participants leave feeling deeply relaxed, refreshed and better able to cope with the demands of everyday life.

Unlike many wellbeing activities, Forest Therapy also nurtures a lasting relationship with nature, giving you simple practices you can return to whenever you need them.

Think of it as 2-3 hours of slowing down that can positively influence the days that follow—not just the time you're in the forest.

Simply visit our Walks page to see upcoming Mornington Peninsula walks and reserve your place. If you have any questions before booking, we'd love to hear from you.