The first edition of the blended  Shinrin Yoku Guide Training conducted in April 2023 in Japan was a highly anticipated and transformative experience organized by The Mindful Tourist: 森の心・人の心 . This comprehensive program, led by our founder, Milena, welcomed participants from diverse backgrounds, including Chin from Malaysia, Helga and Gunvor from Norway, Carolina from Philippines, and Soumia from Senegal. The training, structured to combine 10 weeks of online learning with 5 days of immersive training in Japan, provided a deep understanding of Shinrin Yoku, the practice of forest bathing, and its cultural significance.

Shinrin Yoku Practice: Participants conducted a minimum of four Shinrin Yoku practice sessions during their stay in Japan, providing them with a hands-on experience of guiding in the birthplace of Shinrin Yoku.

Training Components: The immersive training in Japan included classroom sessions, guided Shinrin Yoku sessions, nature immersion activities, instructional techniques and practices, group discussions, cultural and historical perspectives, networking opportunities, and mentorship.

Certification: Upon successful completion of the training, participants received certification as Accredited Shinrin Yoku Guides through SYA.

What to Bring: Participants were advised to bring essential items such as comfortable clothing, hiking shoes, rain gear, a backpack, insect repellent, personal items, notebooks, pens, and most importantly, an open mind and curiosity to fully engage in the practice of Shinrin Yoku.

Q & A Requirements: The training program involved several key requirements, including completing weekly assignments and readings, conducting 10 Shinrin Yoku practice sessions, filling out SYA Self-Evaluation Sheets, passing a final exam, and signing the SYA Pledge. These requirements ensured that participants were well-prepared to become proficient Shinrin Yoku guides.

Q & A Stay: Participants had the opportunity to inquire about various aspects of their stay, including the inclusion of airfare, dietary preferences, physical requirements, group size, accommodation, and more. The training organization aimed to provide a comfortable and enriching experience for all participants.

Participant Review: “My experience with the Shinrin Yoku Guide Training conducted by The Mindful Tourist in April 2023 was nothing short of extraordinary. As someone who has always felt a deep connection with nature but sought a way to share this profound experience with others, this training proved to be a transformative and enlightening journey.

The 10-week online portion of the training was both comprehensive and engaging. Each week brought a new facet of Shinrin Yoku to light, from its cultural origins to the scientific research backing its benefits. The ethical guidelines and values taught in Week 2 resonated deeply with me, emphasizing the importance of respecting both nature and the individuals we guide.

The immersion in Japan, particularly in the city of Nara, was the pinnacle of this experience. Surrounded by lush forests, we explored the birthplace of Shinrin Yoku while gaining hands-on experience. Guiding Shinrin Yoku sessions in this natural wonderland was a privilege I will forever cherish. The serene retreat at とようけのもり, complete with farm work and communal meals, truly immersed us in the practice.

The classroom sessions, guided Shinrin Yoku sessions, and nature immersion activities were perfectly balanced, allowing us to absorb theoretical knowledge while putting it into practice. What I found particularly enriching were the group discussions and reflections, where we shared insights and personal experiences. This collaborative environment fostered personal growth and lasting connections with fellow trainees.

The optional Ikigai module added depth to the training, helping me clarify my passions, motivations, and guiding principles. The emphasis on mission and vision formulation, coupled with strategies for manifesting our goals, was invaluable for my personal and professional development.

Completing the training brought a sense of accomplishment and confidence in my ability to guide others through the transformative practice of Shinrin Yoku. The certification as an Accredited Shinrin Yoku Guide was a testament to the knowledge and skills I had acquired.

The training wasn’t just about becoming a guide; it was a journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and personal growth. It opened my eyes to the immense healing power of nature and the importance of mindfulness in our daily lives. I am immensely grateful to Milena, The Mindful Tourist and the Shinrin Yoku Association for providing this life-changing opportunity.

As I reflect on my experience, I carry with me a deeper connection to nature, a commitment to ethical guiding practices, and a profound sense of purpose in sharing the magic of Shinrin Yoku with others. This training was a true gift, and I am excited to embark on this new chapter as a Shinrin Yoku guide, ready to help others find solace, mindfulness, and healing in the embrace of the forest.” Carolina