From Feeling Lost to Finding Purpose: Janice’s Inspiring Journey to Becoming a Forest Bathing Guide
Have you ever felt a deep connection to nature, a yearning for a simpler way of life, coupled with a desire to make a real difference in the world? Janice, of Kokoro Grove, experienced just that. In a recent interview, she shared her transformative journey to becoming a Forest Bathing Guide, offering valuable insights for anyone considering this fulfilling path.
Recognising a Need to Improve Mental Health
Janice’s initial motivation for pursuing Forest Bathing Guide training stemmed from a personal need for change. Having already explored the theoretical aspects of Forest Bathing, she discovered the opportunity to train and guide others. This resonated deeply, especially given the widespread mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. What began as a desire for a “fun” activity evolved into a profound calling to support others’ well-being.
Most Memorable Moment
One of the most memorable moments of Janice’s training was the group session the cohort led together on day 4 of the immersion week at Sir Harold Hillier’s Gardens. This practical experience, shared with fellow trainees, provided a tangible glimpse of what it meant to be a guide. It was a moment of shared learning, mutual support, and the exciting, slightly nerve-wracking realisation that this dream was becoming a reality. As Janice described, it was like “taking that step off the cliff, hoping the wings are gonna work!” The camaraderie and connection with her cohort and instructor, Sonya, became a cherished part of the experience.
How the Training Changes You
The impact of the Shinrin Yoku training on Janice’s life has been significant. Having previously struggled with depression and low resilience, she found that the practice of Forest Bathing, both personally and professionally, became a powerful source of healing. Guiding others required her to “walk the walk,” further deepening her own connection with nature and nurturing resilience, confidence and a more compassionate perspective. She describes it as a transformative process, with layers of positive change unfolding over time.
Challenges
Of course, any new venture comes with its challenges. For Janice, the biggest hurdle has been raising public awareness about Forest Bathing. Explaining the practice to those unfamiliar with it has become a regular part of her work (It does not involve swimming!). However, she has embraced this through enthusiastic networking, sharing her passion and highlighting the NHS endorsement of Forest Bathing as a green prescription, lending credibility to the practice.
Interested in learning more about becoming a Forest Bathing Guide?
When asked to describe the training and its outcomes one sentence, Janice chose: “It’s deeper than you think!”
She emphasised the ongoing learning, the unique nature of each session, and the profound joy of helping both herself and others through this work. It’s a career that combines personal growth, service to others, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Janice’s message to anyone considering the training is simple: “You’ll not regret it. It’s a really lovely, wonderful and rewarding thing to do.”
I hope this story of Janice’s journey to becoming a Forest Bathing Guide has inspired you and if you want to find out more about training as a Forest Therapy Guide yourself, visit the website: https://adoreyouroutdoors.co.uk/forestbathingguidetraining/
