Nature Therapy of Michiana

About Us

Eco-tourism with wellness benefits! Our guided forest bathing sessions support the whole person: body, mind and spirit, held at locations throughout Southwest Michigan.

Forest Bathing, also known as ecotherapy, Shinrin Yoku, and nature or forest therapy, has its practical roots in Japan in the 1980's where researchers found a scientific link between human access to natural spaces and effects on our nervous system and immune system. Among the many observations and research over the past decades has evolved the evidence-based therapeutic practice developed by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT). ANFT trained guides utilize a proven framework for their sessions, supporting a deeper release from daily stress and worry, and encouraging meaningful connection to the "more-than-human" world of which we are not separate, but rather deeply connected to.

Make space in your day for one of these 2-3 hour guided, small group sessions and experience the lasting benefits offered by our beautiful wooded preserves. You may benefit from leaving worry aside, reducing stress, increasing your body's NK-cell activity and lowering blood pressure.

Your guide, Karen Joy is a certified forest therapy guide through ANFT, and holds certifications from Red Cross and NOLS wilderness first aid. She is also a trained Mental Health First Aid responder. Sessions are held at accessible locations throughout SW Michigan. Bookings are available on our website.

“Look deep into nature & you will understand everything better”- Albert Einstein