A large and rapidly expanding research literature links exposure to natural environments (e.g., forests, parks, gardens, “greener” neighborhoods) with benefits...
森の心・人の心
Journey Through Life With the Wisdom of the Forest
森の心・人の心
Journey Through Life With the Wisdom of the Forest
Meet our Shinrin Yoku Guide - Chin
Tan Chin Wen is a naturalist at The Datai Langkawi in Kedah Darul Aman, Malaysia. With a Bachelor’s degree in Pure Biology, majoring in Zoology, Tan is well-versed in navigating forests and encountering wildlife. His knowledge of biology and zoology enriches his role, allowing him to guide guests in learning about the forest and its inhabitants.
Tan believes that sharing his expertise can enhance the forest bathing experience, helping participants feel safe and relaxed. His ideal Shinrin Yoku session ensures participants feel secure and can fully immerse themselves in nature, learning to interact with it in a new, mindful way. Tan emphasizes the importance of being conscious of the senses—touch, smell, hearing—during these sessions, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
At The Datai Langkawi, surrounded by pristine rainforests, Tan leads walks along various trails, including a favorite 15-minute morning walk through a golf course and a 10-minute trek to a wooden platform by a crystal-clear waterfall. Here, participants can engage in breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation.
Tan’s sessions encourage participants to engage with nature by touching trees, listening to birds, feeling the breeze, and smelling the damp soil. These activities, combined with light facts about nature, help participants slow down and appreciate the natural world, promoting relaxation and a closer connection to their own bodies.
For more information, visit The Datai Langkawi.
“Months ago, I embarked on this journey to be a Shinrin Yoku guide, not knowing that I soon also embarked on a journey of self-exploration, contemplation, and self-love.
The 15-week of assignments and online lessons not only introduced me to some very interesting topics and perspectives about Shinrin Yoku, but also challenged me to rethink my values, rediscover who I really am and who I want to be. I joined the training program expecting to be handed with protocols and things I should do in a Shinrin Yoku session, but what Milena offered was something more valuable than the written rules and the what-I-should-do. The online assignments and lessons make sure all the guides have the right values and perceptions towards Shinrin Yoku, which is important, because essentially, the guide plays an important role in facilitating the connection between participants with nature.
Joining the 5-day physical immersion in Nara, Japan was what I think completed my training. As a zoology student and now a naturalist, the forest has been a place I often visit, and a place I find peace and relaxation. I’ve always knew the forest is a place for healing, however, it is until when I received the invitation from Milena during her Shinrin Yoku session in the Nara forest that I felt just how powerful the forest can be, if guided properly. That is what I wish to achieve with my Shinrin Yoku guide certification, to help people receive the offerings from the forest, which I am fortunate and blessed to have the opportunity to do with my current career. I hope I could inspire people to see forest in a new light, and that they would be inspired to love and care for the forest.
Before signing off, I would like to express my gratitude to the people I’ve met along this journey: Soumia, Caling, Gunvor, Helga, Chie and Hiro. Their openness and support were what allowed me to truly receive what the forest in Nara offered. They were part of what led me to rediscover myself through the immersion course. I’m grateful for these new friendships. With that, I could not thank Milena enough for what she managed to create. Her patience, wisdom and guidance made the learning an enjoyable, educational and inspiring one.
I wish you all, and the other Shinrin Yoku guides the best in whatever you do. May you always find a forest in your heart :)”
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Venture on a memorable path with our 10-week Shinrin Yoku Guide Training program accredited by Shinrin Yoku Association . This journey merges the accessibility of online learning with an enriching immersion in the serene forests of Japan. 🌳🇯🇵
Embark on your online adventure with flexible scheduling.
Continue your transformative journey with a 5-day retreat nestled in the peaceful woodlands of Nara, Japan 🏞️🎑
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The Mindful Tourist
森の心・人の心
Journey Through Life With the Wisdom of the Forest
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森の心・人の心
Journey Through Life With the Wisdom of the Forest