In October 2024, The Mindful Tourist: 森の心・人の心 organized yet another edition of the Shinrin Yoku Guide Training, welcoming participants from the UK, USA (including Hawaii), Malaysia, and New Zealand. A special thank-you goes to the U.S. National Parks Service for sponsoring two exceptional participants, Jessica (Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park)  and Christina (California Conservation Corps)

A Training Curriculum Overview

Participants embarked on a transformative 10-week online journey followed by a 5-day immersive experience in Japan.

Online Training (Weeks 1-10)

• Weeks 1-5: Foundations of Shinrin Yoku – origins, philosophy, ethical guidelines, scientific principles, and practical session design.
• Weeks 6-9: Personal growth and introspection – exploring wellbeing, sensory experiences, values, and empathy in relation to Shinrin Yoku practice.
• Week 10: Final preparations for the Japan immersion – refining skills and preparing for hands-on experiences.
  
  

Japan Immersive Experience

Participants gathered in the heart of forest in Nara prefecture:

• Practice: Four Shinrin Yoku sessions in Japanese forests, allowing participants to connect deeply with nature, inlcude sites evaluation
• Training Components: Classroom sessions, guided Shinrin Yoku practices, cultural and historical insights, and mentorship.
• Certification: Accreditation as Shinrin Yoku Guides through SYA, empowering participants to guide others in the practice of forest bathing.

This training once again demonstrated the power of forwat to connect individuals with nature and each other, creating a diverse, supportive community of guides.