Deep Rest in Nature: The Art of Forest Bathing
This workshop includes a brief introduction to forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) and its scientifically backed benefits, such as stress reduction, enhanced well-being, and nervous system regulation. Guidelines will be provided for the walk, emphasising emotional and physical safety. Participants will engage in guided activities that connect their senses to the natural surroundings, a creative exercise, a reflective sit spot, and a closing circle. The session concludes with an opportunity for questions and comments about the forest bathing process and how to incorporate these practices into daily life. This will all take place outdoors as an experiential practice.
David Roland
he/him
Psychologist & Forest Bathing Guide
David Roland is a psychologist, forest bathing guide, and writer. He earned his BSc (Hons) from the University of Sydney and his PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Wollongong. For over twenty years, he worked as a clinical and forensic psychologist, treating and assessing clients for the Children’s Court Clinic and the Criminal Court. He holds an adjunct lecturer position at Southern Cross University and is a founding member of Compassionate Mind Australia. He served as an advisor for the Young Stroke Project with the National Stroke Foundation.
David leads the nature-based compassion-focused intervention for the Healing Climate-Related Trauma clinical trial at Southern Cross University. As a certified forest bathing guide, he facilitates connections with nature for well-being. He is the consultant psychologist for Renal Services NNSWLHD and author of three books: The Confident Performer, How I Rescued My Brain, and The Power of Suffering: Growing through life crises. He has contributed to various publications and electronic media.
David lives on the lands of the Bundjalung nation.