Book A Shinrin-yoko/Forest Bathing Session
Slow down. Step in. Let the forest do the rest.
Shinrin-yoku, which literally means “forest bathing”, is the Japanese practice of immersing yourself in a forest atmosphere through slow, deliberate sensory awareness. It is not a walk. It is not exercise. It is an invitation to simply be present with the living world around you.
Elissa is currently undertaking specialist training in Shinrin-yoku and adapts its principles to Bribie Island’s remarkable ecosystems where paperbark forest, mangrove corridors, and coastal bush meet. The forests here is quiet, layered, and deeply alive.
Research consistently shows that time among trees lowers cortisol levels, reduces blood pressure, and supports immune function. Studies from Japan and South Korea have found that even short periods of forest immersion can produce measurable improvements in mood, attention, and nervous system regulation. On Bribie Island, the forest offers all of this … and more.
What a session includes
Your 90-minute session is unhurried and sensory. Together we visit one or two carefully chosen locations — shoreline forest, mangrove, or wetland — and move slowly, pause often, and pay close attention. A session may include:
- Guided sensory immersion among trees and mangroves
- Slow, mindful walking with attentional cues
- Seated meditation or stillness practice in nature
- A quiet, low pressure, creative activity (e.g. drawing for joy or observational sketching)
- A reflective or creative writing practice (noticing, responding, recording)
- Time to simply sit with the forest
On Wednesdays and Sundays, a visit to Bribie Island Butterfly House may be included as an optional add-on — a remarkable opportunity to experience stillness and wonder within a living ecosystem.
Available at dawn, morning, or dusk.
How it works
Ecotherapy sessions loosely follow The Quiet Catch convoy model. You’ll need your own vehicle. Elissa leads the way to one or two locations; you follow. There is no convoy audio commentary in ecotherapy sessions. This is quiet, unhurried time. Visit How It Works for more detail.
Accessiblity
Sessions can be adapted to suit different mobility needs and accessibility limitations. Not all elements of a session may be possible depending on your specific requirements. Terrain, surface, and distance all vary by location. Please get in touch before booking to talk through what will work best for you.
Weather
Sessions proceed in all conditions except heavy rain, strong winds, or other unsuitable weather. If conditions are unsuitable, we will reschedule. Read our full Cancellation Policy for more info.
Cost
Solo $150
Duo $220