Why walk with a
certified Forest Bathing Guide?
Of course, anyone can take a walk in the woods and enjoy the peaceful nature. However, taking a "proper forest bath"
is easier said than done.
Eight reasons to walk with a guide
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Focus on the here and now
In our fast-paced modern lives, our minds are often distracted - by to-do lists, what's for dinner, did I remember to book that appointment for next week, and oh I should call my mom...
We often find it hard to stay in the present moment, to lower our shoulders and feel at ease in the forest.
Slow down
On a Forest Bathing walk, your guide sets the pace and gradually slows you down through a purposely designed sequence. Many people move too quickly through natural settings, and walking slowly is harder than one might think.
Engage
Your guide offers suggestions on ways to interact with your surroundings, mowing your attention to things you might never have seen before.
Know the route
Your guide takes on the planning of the route, and adapts the walk according to season, weather, and your needs. He or she checks the length, and assesses the trail for benefits and hazards, ensuring your walk is safe and peaceful. You do not need to remember the sequence or think about what to do next, in order to reap all the benefits from your walk.
A safe space
Some people feel uncomfortable walking on their own in the forest, sitting down on the ground, closing their eyes. That is all easier in a group, led by a guide, trained in creating a safe space for all participants. And through the practice, you will build your own Forest Bathing confidence.
A shared experience
Guides create a non-judgemental supportive space, where you have the opportunity to share your experience, and will be listened to attentively. If you walk in a group, that can provide an even richer experience, describing your observations and listening to others. And to book a walk might actually make you take that step outside ;).
Find your favourites
A guide can help you grow your connection with nature in a personal way. Daring to trust your instincts, maybe remembering how you used to play as a child or finding out where you feel safe in nature. A guide can show you ways to strengthen this connection in your daily life, in - or close to your home.
Learn something new
We can learn from each other. The guide will have done some research about the area and might also tell you a thing or two about the trees and plants at the end of the walk.
I will probably also share some new findings from the universities where I work. But these are extras. What matters is you and your connection with nature.
More about your guide
Hi, I'm Hanna, a certified Forest Bathing Guide and Research Communication Specialist.
My journey with forest therapy began in 2019 while working at a university in Sweden, where I came across a research article on the subject.
Since then, my interest has deepened, fueled by the growing realization of the universal need to reconnect with nature, for both human and planetary health.
As I moved from Sweden to the Netherlands, the heightened pace of life and the even bigger disconnection from nature became even more apparent. I felt the need to slow down the constantly flying Dutchmen (and women).
My mission as a guide
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to teach and facilitate nature connection techniques, providing more individuals with the opportunity to experience the health benefits of our natural environments.
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to support companies, organizations and schools, to reduce stress, prevent burnout, and improve the health and well-being of their coworkers and students, while also stimulating creativity and teamwork.
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to collaborate with health practitioners in health and rehabilitation interventions.
My vision is a society where we learn to slow down, where we understand that we are part of nature, dependent on nature, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, on our little planet.
Name: Hanna Post
Country of origin: Sweden
Currently living in: Ede, the Netherlands
Age: 39
Education: A Master of Science (MSc) in communication
Languages I speak: English, Swedish and Dutch
Occupation (when not guiding in the forest):
Research Communications Officer
I am a certified Forest Bathing Guide, through the Forest Therapy Hub.
I am a member of the Association for Forest Bathing Guides in the Netherlands - Branchevereniging voor Bosbadgidsen Nederland.
I also have a Wilderness First Aid certification, through The Outdoor School.
What does Tiaki mean?
Tiaki is a Māori word that loosely means to care, conserve, and protect. To be a guardian of our nature and our sea.
It is a significant part of Māori culture in New Zealand.
Aotearoa New Zealand has a special place in my heart and this country is the reason why I ended up in the Netherlands.
The fern in my logo is also a symbol of New Zealand.
It's a plant that fascinates me. They are one of the oldest groups of plants on Earth, older than dinosaurs, and I find their different shapes and patterns beautiful. Don't you?
The reason
