So, you’re drawn to the tranquility of nature and fancy becoming your own boss while creating a deeper human:nature connection for you, your clients and the future of our planet? Pursuing Forest Therapy Training UK and becoming a Forest Bathing Guide could be your calling! Sonya Dibbin at Adore Your Outdoors has been training new students since 2023, in response to her having to turn down work because she didn’t have help.
Let’s explore some of the most common questions we hear about our twice-accredited training programme.
1. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Forest Bathing Guide?
At Adore Your Outdoors, we believe that as a Forest Therapy Guide, with your business rooted in nature, you get to open the door to truly joyful living, both for you and for future generations, and that those who work to nurture a sustainable future deserve to be rewarded financially, as well as with deep fulfillment. You’ll develop a deeper connection to nature that eases your anxiety and feeds your soul, and become part of ‘something bigger’ – finally bidding farewell to that tricky-to-explain feeling of loneliness. You’ll also gain the skills and confidence to empower others – developing a deep sense of purpose as you make a real difference to others.
2. What are the job prospects for Forest Bathing Guides?
The field of Forest Bathing is growing rapidly, creating exciting opportunities for trained guides to join the Forest Bathing Revolution. You can work independently, partner with land owners, lead retreats, offer corporate workshops, collaborate with healthcare providers (Forest Bathing is endorsed as a green social prescription on the NHS), and more. Perhaps you’re including Forest Therapy in your existing repertoire, or maybe you’re starting out and going self-employed for the first time. Whatever your situation, we provide guidance on career pathways and business development to help you succeed.
3. What essential skills will I gain?
You’ll learn to facilitate a series of thoughtfully chosen Forest Bathing invitations, understand the science of Nature Connection and Shinrin Yoku and become confident in guiding diverse customer groups. You’ll discover how to create safe and meaningful experiences that promote wellbeing and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Prepare to become a confident and effective guide.
4. What’s involved with Forest Therapy Training UK?
Our comprehensive certification programme spans six months. This extended timeframe allows for a deep immersion into the practice, going far beyond a quick overview and ensuring you’re ready to start running paid-for sessions straight away – recouping your investment as quickly as possible. We cover ethical considerations and best practices, the model and structure of the three-hour Forest Bathing experience, and the practicalities of guiding groups in the great outdoors. You also deliver three trial walks and various other assignments as part of your practical coursework, and at the end there’s an open-book exam. This whole process gives you time to integrate your learning, practice your skills and build your confidence. It’s a journey, not a sprint!
5. How is the training delivered?
There are two learning paths with our Forest Therapy Training UK; choose between the hybrid and the fully online learning journey. Our signature hybrid programme involves 2 days online followed by 5 days face-to-face in the woods. This is – by far – the best learning experience because you get to attend a session for real customers delivered by your expert tutor and co-create and deliver a full-length experience with your cohort on your final day. We also recognise it’s not always possible to travel to Hampshire in England, and we use a dynamic virtual classroom for the online sessions so we can engage in interactive exercises, role play and engaging discussions. While we highly value in-person connections, we’ve crafted an online experience that’s rich, engaging and deeply transformative.
6. How many hours of live teaching are there?
Our Forest Bathing Guide Certification program includes 46 hours of live, interactive teaching sessions. These sessions are designed to be engaging, informative and deeply experiential, leading to a strong sense of community and connection. Furthermore, we have a maximum of 9 people in each cohort, ensuring personal attention throughout.
7. What are the prerequisites for Forest Bathing Guide training?
The primary prerequisite is a genuine passion for nature and a desire to share its healing benefits with others. You don’t need prior experience in guiding or extensive knowledge of botany. A willingness to learn, a commitment to personal growth and an open mind are essential.
8. Do I need to be a naturalist?
Not at all! While a love for nature is essential, you don’t need to be a botanist or wildlife expert. Our training provides you with the necessary knowledge to confidently guide experiences, focusing on sensory awareness, mindful presence, and creating and deepening a connection with nature, whatever your current level of expertise.
9. How much does Forest Therapy Training UK cost?
The investment for our comprehensive Forest Bathing Guide Certification program is [Insert Price Here]. This includes all training materials, access to our online resources, ongoing support, and access to our graduate community. We also offer [mention any payment plans or discounts].
10. Can you help with launching my Forest Bathing business?
Yes! We are committed to your success. Our training includes modules dedicated to business development, sales, marketing and ethical considerations. We provide practical tools, templates and ongoing support to help you launch and grow your Forest Bathing business.
11. What qualifications do you hold?
Our lead trainer, Sonya Dibbin, has extensive experience in Nature Connection, mindfulness, counselling and education. We are a twice-accredited training provider, demonstrating that our program meets the highest standards of quality and ethical practice.
12. What about practical considerations like toilets and weather?
We address these in detail during our training! You’ll learn how to choose locations with appropriate facilities, adapt to different weather conditions (rain can enhance the experience!), and ensure participant comfort and safety.
13. How much can I charge for a Forest Bathing session?
This depends on various factors, including your location, experience, the length and type of session, and your target market. We provide guidance on pricing strategies during the business and marketing modules of our Forest Therapy Guide Training UK, helping you to establish a sustainable, rewarding and profitable practice.
14. Why is your Forest Therapy Training UK course the best?
We believe the Adore Your Outdoors Forest Bathing Guide Training course stands out because of its comprehensive approach, its emphasis on experiential learning, its strong community support and our commitment to your individual growth. As such, we go beyond the basics to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become a truly exceptional Forest Bathing Guide. We don’t just teach you how to guide; we help you find your own authentic voice and style. We are dedicated to your success, and we provide ongoing support long after you graduate with lifetime access to resources and ongoing group gatherings.
Ready to take the next step and explore a career that nourishes your soul and benefits the planet? Visit our website to learn more about our Forest Therapy Training UK Certification program and how to apply!
