Nurtured in Nature

What is Forest Therapy?

Forest Therapy, known in Japan as Shinrin-yoku is an evidence-based public health practice which can be undertaken as a preventative or therapeutic activity to lower your heart rate, blood pressure and strengthen physical fitness and boost the immune system. Forest Therapy also has a positive effect on your mood, stress levels, concentration and creativity.  Guided Forest Therapy combines a blend of complementary physical, mental and creative activities in forest, bush or garden surrounds.

Benefits of Forest Therapy

The evidence based benefits of Forest Therapy include:

• Boosts immune system functioning
• Reduce blood pressure
• Reduced stress
• Improved mood and ability to focus
• Increased energy
• Improved sleep

What does a Forest Therapy session look like?

A guided Forest Therapy walk usually consists of a 2-3 hours of nature based activities designed to help you focus on slowing down and awakening your senses while connecting with nature. The walk is low impact and covers around 1.5 kms, so is suitable for people with a wide range of fitness levels.

Amanda is a Certified Forest Therapy Guide with the International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance (INFTA) and has been delivering Guided Forest Therapy Walks in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens since January 2025.

Together with her partner, she manages Backyard Beekeeping Ballarat and works on their latest project Peerick Farm Botanicals a fledgling Australian Native Flower and Juniper Berry Farm in the Pyrenees, Victoria.

Amanda is a passionate Nature Steward, Permaculturalist and local Health Promotion Officer and is currently completing a Certificate 3 in Horticulture at Federation TAFE.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Applied Science (Nursing)
• Bachelor of Arts (Rural Social Welfare)
• Graduate Certificate in Criminology
• Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness
• Certificate in Social and Therapeutic Horticulture