The forest is the healer - the practice opens the door
Shinrin yoku
forest bathing
Shinrin Yoku—often translated as “forest bathing”—is not exercise, hiking, or simply being outside. It is the intentional practice of immersing yourself in the living intelligence of nature. Through guided sensory awareness, breath, stillness, and presence, the forest becomes more than a backdrop—it becomes medicine.
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In a world where Americans spend nearly 87% of their lives indoors, many people are experiencing a quiet but profound longing to reconnect with something real, grounding, and alive. Research continues to show what ancient traditions have always known: time in nature can support the nervous system, reduce stress, improve mood, increase mental clarity, and create a greater sense of connection and well-being.
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What was once considered a niche wellness practice is quickly becoming one of the fastest-growing movements in holistic health. Some experts even describe forest bathing as the next wellness wave to follow yoga in the United States.
And just like yoga teachers helped people reconnect to their bodies and breath over the last several decades, people are now seeking trained guides to help them reconnect to nature—and ultimately, to themselves.
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As a Shinrin Yoku Guide, you are not simply leading walks in the woods. You are creating experiences that help people slow down, regulate, listen, soften, and remember how to be in relationship with the natural world again. In a culture moving faster and faster, this work matters deeply.
“During chemotherapy treatment, one of the most important numbers my doctors monitor is my neutrophil count—the immune marker that determines whether my body is strong enough to receive treatment.
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After participating in both the Shinrin Yoku Certification and another Shinrin Yoku experience at SHINE, my bloodwork showed noticeable spikes in those numbers.
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Seeing that pattern was a powerful reminder of the healing power of nature.
SHINE has introduced me to so many healing modalities throughout my journey, and I’m deeply grateful for the experiences, support, and care they continue to provide.”
Angie Neely -
our offering
The forest is the healer - the practice opens the door
Learn and prepare for your experience with a quick overview of what forest therapy is all about
Be guided on a 3 hour experience ending with a tea ceremony and sharing circle
Each practice ends with a closing practice to further enhance the experience and close out the forest bathe
It's not a hike
Another misconception about forest bathing is that you are going on a hike through the wilderness, which also is not the case. The pace of forest bathing is much, much slower and much more relaxed. In fact, at times, you will be asked to sit in the same spot for 15 or 20 minutes, or even longer. The distance is also very different than a hike – most forest bathing experiences include walking ½ a mile or less.
It's not an intellectual endeavor
Although there is much to learn in the forest, scientific facts about nature is not the point, in fact just the opposite is true. During Shinrin Yoku, you immerse your senses in the special characteristics of the forest. The forest will invite you to receive sounds, sights and energies. Speaking of energies, being with and a part of nature has many health benefits (seen here).
Reciprocity is one of the most important aspects to understand about forest bathing. Its not about “taking” from the forest for our healing; its about starting a relationship and a connection to all living things through continual inquiry. These inquires are referred to as invitations in Shinrin Yoku (some examples here).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this certification accredited through a national Forest Bathing organization?
At this time, there is no universally recognized governing body that accredits Shinrin Yoku or Forest Bathing certifications in the way that organizations accredit professions such as yoga, massage therapy, or counseling.
This certification is offered through SHINE and is based on extensive training, including a 150-hour Forest Bathing certification, years of guiding experiences, and a multidisciplinary background in nature-based wellness, mindfulness, and holistic practices.
The curriculum honors the traditional Japanese roots of Shinrin Yoku, including foundational principles such as invitations, presence, reciprocity, and the 9-step Forest Bathing sequence, while also incorporating practical facilitation skills for today's wellness environments.
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What designation will I receive?
Graduates receive a SHINE Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku) Guide Certification and may identify themselves as a Certified Forest Bathing Guide through SHINE.
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How does this certification compare to longer Forest Bathing programs?
Forest Bathing certifications vary widely in length, depth, format, and investment. Some programs span several weeks or months and require a significant financial commitment.
Our intention at SHINE is different.
Because we believe learning should be accessible.
Many Forest Bathing certifications require a substantial investment of both time and money. While those programs can be wonderful for individuals seeking an extensive immersion, they are not the right fit for everyone.
This training was intentionally designed as a practical, affordable entry point into the world of Shinrin Yoku.
You'll learn the foundations, experience the practice firsthand, receive facilitation resources, and leave with the tools needed to begin sharing Forest Bathing experiences with others.
For some students, this certification is the perfect standalone training. For others, it's the beginning of a deeper journey into nature-based wellness and facilitation.
Both paths are valuable.
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What is included with the certification?
In addition to live instruction and guided practice experiences, you'll receive a comprehensive collection of teaching and facilitation resources, including:
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Presentation slides
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Practice guides
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Invitation prompts
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Printable PDFs
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Facilitation tools and ideas
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Guidance for creating and leading your own experiences
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Certificate of completion
Our goal is for you to leave not only understanding Shinrin Yoku, but feeling confident guiding others through meaningful nature-based experiences.
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Do I need insurance as a Forest Bathing Guide?
While we are not able to provide legal or insurance advice, many guides choose to carry a general liability policy when offering paid services to the public.
Insurance needs can vary depending on your location, venue, business structure, and the types of experiences you offer. We recommend consulting an insurance professional to determine the coverage that is appropriate for your situation.
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Do I need a permit to guide Forest Bathing experiences in parks or public spaces?
Permit requirements vary by location and land manager. Some parks require permits for organized group activities, while others may not.
If you plan to offer public or paid experiences, we recommend contacting the park, nature preserve, or public land agency directly to understand any applicable permit, insurance, or group-use requirements before advertising your event.
Cortney Martinelli
150 hour Certified Shinrin Yoku Guide
Cortney completed her online training from the Centre of Excellence in 2020. Cortney incorporates her extensive Reiki background into the teachings of Shinrin Yoku as she guides practitioners to playfully, joyfully and mindfully explore nature with the continual inquiry that is at the foundation of this ancient practice. After Cortney purchased her Education + Retreat center on a magical piece of land, she was called to study and then teach Forest Bathing so that she could share this magical place with others on a deeper, more profound level.
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