This event has been canceled.
Join ACT for a forest bathing session with certified guide Donna Mansbart at Saarinen Preserve.
"Forest bathing," also known as shinrin-yoku, is a practice from Japan that involves spending time in nature to improve health and well-being. It can involve activities such as walking in the woods, breathing in the forest's natural aromas, and listening to the sounds of nature. Studies have shown that forest bathing can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, lower blood pressure, and improve overall feelings of well-being.
Participants will be provided with nature journals as well as tea and cups for the tea gathering at the end of the session.
WHAT TO BRING
Bug spray, sunscreen, comfortable clothing.
WHEN
Saturday, May 20th
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
WHERE
3208 NW 186th ST
Newberry, FL 32609
ABOUT Saarinen Preserve
The Saarinen Preserve was donated to ACT in the late 1990's by Arthur and Phyllis Saarinen for perpetual preservation.
The property has a mix of forest types. There are scattered natural stands of longleaf pine and live oak within about 40 acres of mesic hammock - an upland forest type mostly consisting of hardwoods - and there are a total of about 38 acres of planted slash pine. The planted pines are approximately 17-years-old, and some of the live oaks and longleaf pines may be more than a century old.
ACT has undertaken restoration activities that include thinning of the planted pine and replacing it with native longleaf pine. Other efforts will include creating conditions that encourage desirable species to seed in naturally, such as maintaining openings to encourage a more diverse herbaceous and wildflower layer. The ultimate goal is a forest that mimics the natural forest of North Central Florida – a mosaic of pines with a wide range of hardwoods and shrubs suitable for the site.
ACCESS INFO
Public trails (approx. 2.6 miles) and picnic facilities are available.
Parking is available at trailhead.
The preserve closes at dark.
REGISTRATION
Space is limited and reservations are required through Eventbrite. There is a registration cost for this session:
The cost of this event is $50, click the button to register for this event.
Banner image by Kim Davidson.
