Pause and Presence: An Introduction to Forest Bathing

Saturday, January 10, 2026: This event is geared to adults and includes an indoor presentation from 11:00 AM until 12:30 PM, followed by a Forest Bathing walk from 1:00 PM until 2:30 PM. Participants are welcome to register for: ONLY the indoor presentation; ONLY the Forest Bathing walk; or BOTH the indoor presentation and the Forest Bathing walk. Please select the ticket(s) that correspond(s) to the session(s) you would like to attend.

Event Schedule:

•Indoor Presentation: 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

•Break: 12:30 PM until 1:00 PM (if you are attending BOTH the indoor presentation and the Forest Bathing walk, we recommend bringing a packed lunch or snack to enjoy in our indoor space)

•Forest Bathing Walk: 1:00 PM until 2:30 PM

Indoor Presentation Description:

This talk introduces the practice and principles of Forest Bathing and invites participants to reflect on how we understand self-care and wellness. Together, we will explore what it means to move beyond seeing nature as a backdrop for relaxation and instead recognize it as a living companion and teacher in our pursuit of well-being. We will discuss how nature connection supports emotional regulation, nervous-system balance, and a deeper sense of belonging. You will leave with a new understanding of how nature and wellbeing are connected.

This conversation sets the stage for the following Forest Bathing walk. It will provide the theoretical framework of Forest Bathing to help us ground into the practice.

Forest Bathing Walk Description:

Organized by Downsview Park in partnership with Forest Bathing Club (FBC), this walk is offered to the public as an introductory experience to the practice of Forest Bathing. Led by Emily Pleasance, this experience will offer you a space to drop into your body, tune into your senses, and connect with the more-than-human-world. You will be introduced to the concept of all beings, have stories told about the land, and be showed alternative ways of being with yourself, each other, and nature. Unlike a hike where there is a destination, this practice is about arriving here, in the present moment.

How Forest Bathing Works:

•No prior experience is necessary

•Slow and relaxed walk with time to rest

•Approximately 1.5hrs (route no longer than 1km)

•Invitations offering you to be with nature

 How To Prepare for Forest Bathing: 

•Wear layered clothing and dress for -10 degrees cooler than the forecast. This is not a brisk walk so we will not be creating body heat to support us. Choose clothing that offers a lot of warmth with the knowing that you can always take off layers to cool down. 

•Bring weather-appropriate and comfortable clothing, a water bottle, and an open mind. 

Bio: Emily Pleasance, MA, RP (Q), ExAT 

Emily is an artist, climate-aware Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Expressive Arts Therapist (ExAT), and certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide. She is the founder of the Forest Bathing Club and the Ontario Regional Co-Coordinator for the Climate Psychology Alliance of North America. Emily’s work in eco/climate psychology bridges public programs, corporate wellness, and clinical practice, supporting individuals and groups in navigating stress, anxiety, and climate grief through arts, body, and nature-based approaches. Fundamentally, her practice is focused on human–nature relationships. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: 

•Arrival Time: YOU MUST arrive a minimum of 15 minutes prior to the sessions for registration and orientation. SESSIONS BEGIN ON THE HOUR – SHARP! •Release Forms and Waivers provided at the start of the event must be signed to participate. 

•Inclement Weather Policy: The Forest Bathing Club can reschedule the Forest Bathing walk due to inclement weather. 

Pets are not permitted at this program. Service animals are always welcome. 

Please note this program is intended for individuals and families. Organized groups should book here. 

All ages are welcome but those under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 

French language service is available upon request. Please let us know. 

This education program is proudly supported by TD Bank Group.

By clicking "Register", I acknowledge that I have read through the Parc Downsview Park Inc. ("PDP") Terms and Conditions, accept the PDP Privacy Notice and agree to PDP's use of my information in relation to this Program.

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