Forest Bathing at the Botanical Garden

Sunday, July 6, 2025
4-6pm
San Francisco Botanical Garden — Main Gate

About the Program

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the natural world on a forest bathing walk.  Inspired by the Japanese tradition of shinrin-yoku, this mindful, slow-paced journey invites participants to engage all senses connecting deeply with the sights, sounds, and textures of the forest, guided by prompts to pause and notice the intricate details of leaves, the soothing rhythm of bird songs, and the earthy scent of the soil lowering stress levels, reducing blood pressure, and enhancing overall well-being. 

Beneficial beyond relaxation, this practice honors and deepens our relationship with the Earth, inviting us to recognize our part in the intricate web of life by slowing down, attuning to nature, and inspiring a sense of stewardship and gratitude. This walk is not about exercise or reaching a destination — it’s about being fully present and experiencing the healing, rejuvenating power of nature. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, emotional balance, or simply a deeper connection to the natural world, a forest bathing walk is a simple yet profound way to nurture both body and soul. 

Due to the slow and contemplative nature of this experience, we recommend participants be 12 years old and older. 

Please dress in warm layers and bring water. 

About the Instructor

Ben Page is a Forest Therapy Guide, council carrier, DJ, creator of Story Weaving and the author of Healing Trees: A Pocket Guide to Forest Bathing, The Wild Garden and The World In My Pocket. His work focuses on the philosophical ethic of non-striving and self-love as a gateway to inner peace and compassionate action. Ben holds a B.A. in religious studies from Carleton College and an M.A. in human development and social change from Pacific Oaks College. 

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Gardens of Golden Gate Park Members may attend this event at a 20% discount. Contact membership@gggp.org to receive the Member Discount Code, then enter the Member Discount Code in the “Promo Code” field when checking out. Discount codes do not apply to the “Pay What You Will” price level.

Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.