Forest bathing, or Shirin-yoku in Japanese, is defined as a leisurely visit to a forest. Shinrin-Yoku inspired forest therapy is a slow, guided walk in nature that awakens every sense, calms the mind, and produces more joy, creativity, curiosity and overall good health. The forest is the therapist, the guide opens the door to the forest and invites you to experience the forest with a variety of sensory invitations. It’s like a vacation at the Spa!

Forest therapy has been shown to have other measurable  health benefits include lower blood pressure, boosted immune system, increased cancer-fighting proteins (natural killer cells), reduced stress hormones and improved mental health. The boost can last as long as a week. Essential wood oils, volatile antimicrobial tree compounds called phytoncides are regarded as being similar to natural aromatherapy.

A hike or a bike in the woods, while being a beneficial experience, is not the same as forest therapy or forest bathing.

Haida Bolton is a certified Forest Therapy Guide. Check out “Nature with Haida” if you would like to experience forest bathing. Great for corporate retreats as well.

 
 
 
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Other Activities

  • Festival of the Written Arts

    Presents writers of diverse genres, attracting hundreds of locals and visitors annually.

  • Birding

    Local wetlands, estuaries, lakes, forests, ocean coastlines and marshes attract a great number of bird species to admire.

  • Beachcombing

    Treasures abound on local beaches from rocks and driftwood to tidal pools and microscopic sea creatures.

  • Art Crawl

    Every fall in October the large group of talented artists and crafters on the coast open their doors.

  • Indigenous Tours

    The Sunshine Coast includes the traditional, unceded territories of the Squamish (skwxwú7mesh), Sechelt (shíshálh), and Tla’amin and Klahoose nations.

  • Fishing / Crabbing

    Float peacefully in Sargeant Bay casting for cutthroat or steelhead or try a fishing charter with one of the experienced Sunshine Coast operators. Some tours include shellfish harvesting.

  • Flight / Marine Touring

    A great way to appreciate the coves, bays and waterways of this spectacular stretch of the West Coast.

  • Golf

    For those who enjoy a round of golf there are several great courses on the Sunshine Coast.

  • Snowsports

    While most sports can be enjoyed year round on the Sunshine Coast because of our temperate climate, snow sports can only be enjoyed in winter.

  • Art Tours

    Sunshine Coast Art Tours shuttles you to the personal studios of some of Canada’s most celebrated artists.