Join Nadine Mazzola, certified forest therapy guide, consultant and author of the award-winning book “Forest Bathing with Your Dog”, to learn how to do forest bathing invitations with your dog. Your dog will even be your guide! This outdoor experience called forest bathing is inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin yoku which means taking the atmosphere of the forest with your senses. Do you hate to leave your dog behind? With her years of experience, Nadine has developed her own way of bringing these two things together combining her experience as a certified forest therapy guide and a dog owner. Spending time in nature with her dog and forest bathing are two of Nadine’s favorite things to do. Using our senses to slow down and bring us to the present moment is the way of a Shinrin Yoku walk. So often our walks can be something we have to get done, rushed or full of conversation on our phones. Instead, learn how to make part of your walk a time to slow down, connect and release the stress in the Shinrin Yoku way. Even make it part of a mindfulness practice with your dog! Suggested equipment: Extra-long leash. My preference is to use a 20-foot training lead. I will have extras if you'd like to try one out. No aggressive dogs or dogs in heat are permitted. We reserve the right to remove any dogs thought to be dangerous to other dogs or participants.

Please only bring 1 dog per human companion. 

WHAT TO EXPECT: 

• A leisurely stroll of about a mile. Along the way we will gather and sit and wander slowly. Please check the weather forecast so you are prepared and wear one more layer than you think you will need.

WHAT TO BRING:

• Proof of rabies vaccination. The tag on your dog's collar is fine or please bring their certificate.
• Please bring an extra-long leash for your dog. A 15’ or 20’ leash is recommended.
• For yourself, wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking on uneven terrain. You may also want to have a sunhat, sunblock and bug repellent. Bring anything else you may want to be comfortable outdoors.

Instructor: Nadine Mazzola

Nadine is an award winning author of the Certified Forest Therapy Guide and founder/director of New England Nature and Forest Therapy Consulting based in Massachusetts. She is also a trainer, mentor and advisor for the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT). Nadine's training includes special knowledge in guiding people of all ages in Shinrin-Yoku, "Forest Bathing," walks and the body of scientific knowledge demonstrating the benefits of spending time in nature as a wellness practice and an effective way to manage stress. She has come to know the healing and support that nature can offer us through her own personal wellness journey.

Also an artist, she facilitates Expressive Arts classes at the Virginia Thurston Healing Garden, often incorporating elements of forest therapy throughout. She works with a wide variety of populations including the corporate business world, wellness professionals, people affected by cancer, students, special needs and seniors. Nadine is available for consulting, private or group forest bathing half-day and full-day workshops, and speaking engagements.

$50 Member; $65 Non-Member (Admission to the Garden is included)

*Please note: You do not need to register your dog for this class.  Only 1 dog per human companion, please. 

To register for a class:

• Log In/Create Account: Please log in or create an account.  The Log In/Create Account button is located in the bar at the top of the screen on the right.
• Choose Your Class: Return to the class you wish to attend.
• Add Students: If you have not already done so, you will need to scroll to the bottom of the page and add Attendees.  You will need to add yourself and anyone else you wish to register.  If you have already done this, the Attendees will be listed below and simply check the box next to the desired attendees.
• Add To Cart: Add the class to your cart and pay.  You will receive an email confirming the registration.
• If you need assistance, please contact the Registrar at 508-869-6111 x 174 or email at registrar@nebg.org .  Please note that the Registrar is a part-time position, and we will get back to you as soon as possible. 

Construction Update: Beginning in October 2023, renovations & construction will be taking place in and around the Visitor Center. While every effort will be made to minimize the impact to our programs, there may be some noise, dust, or other disruptions.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Registrar at registrar@nebg.org.