Leveraging natural resources to foster healthy habits and reduce stress
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EmailAfter several months of group study, reading, and research, MSU Extension educators at Tollgate Farm were certified as forest therapy guides.
Our emotional, psychological and social well-being help us determine how we relate to others, handle stress and make healthy choices. Youth and adults are experiencing stress at higher levels since the COVID-19 pandemic. Mental health, stress and overall health are linked, and while small amounts of stress help us improve our resilience, when stress becomes chronic, it can negatively impact mental and physical health.
One strategy to alleviate stress involves “forest therapy,” or “forest bathing,” which M. Amos Clifford, founder of the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides cites as a “research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments.”
Michigan State University Extension’s Tollgate Farm and Education Center is a historic property with 40 acres of beech maple forest situated in suburban Metro Detroit. In 2022, educators from Tollgate leveraged the farm’s natural resources by partnering with the Novi Community Coalition and Novi Community Schools to become trained and certified to offer forest therapy to the larger community. After several months of group study, reading, and research, MSU Extension educators at Tollgate Farm were certified as forest therapy guides.
Seasonal series of public forest therapy walks began at Tollgate on a regular basis in spring of 2022. With a grant from the Prevention Network, educators were able to cover the cost of the training and staff time to provide walks for the public. Each participant also received a drawstring bag with the book titled “Your Guide To Forest Bathing,” a forest therapy journal, and several mindfulness tools.
Through this initiative, nearly 500 people participated in programming opportunities offered to the public and through tailored walks for community groups. Participants included educators, first responders, hospice workers, therapists, teens, health professionals, and many additional audiences.
Several participants reported reduced blood pressure, a sense of calmness and peace, reduction of depression and enhanced sense of well-being. Forest therapy continues to serve the needs of community members, young and old alike, from across metro Detroit and beyond, as requests continue to be received.
Public Value
Those who participate in forest bathing increase their physical and mental wellbeing, reduce stress, improve creativity and are often happier. This can lead to a happier family, community and work environment.
