Walking outside and just being in nature has proven benefits for our health, both physical and mental. Adding a pet or animal companion into the mix may just increase those benefits. Have you heard of or tried forest bathing yet? Forest bathing is just the act of being among trees for an extended period. The idea is to be fully present and immersed in the forest, mind, body, and spirit.

How does this benefit us though? Research has shown that forest bathing can reduce cortisol, which is a stress hormone, boost our immune systems, have a positive effect on lowering anxiety and depression. An important point to note, is this is not just a hike or cardio walk. Outdoor exercise is important and has its own benefits of course. Forest bathing is more about taking stock in the nature around us, being surrounded by trees or forest if possible, and finding a way to connect ourselves with nature for more than a few minutes. The linked articles above can give more detailed insights into how to do this on your own. The aim for our mindful walks is to take a pause, take a breath, and take a look at the beauty around us.

Peaceful Life Counseling would like to offer the benefits of a nature walk with an animal through meetups to help us be present and a collaborative walk through some of the local area parks with walking paths. We will alternate locations but all will be in a reasonable distance from Hwy 59. The walk will not be long enough for the recommended two hours or offer the encouraged tai chi, yoga, or meditation of forest bathing but will invite you to take time for yourself to connect with Honey, others, and our local parks. This is not therapy and does not constitute a therapeutic relationship or contract.

5 Benefits:

1 Reduce Stress, lower cortisol, and increase positive mood
2 Lower feelings of depression and anxiety
3 Walking with a dog encourages more exercise
4 Increase the practice of mindfulness
5 Walking in a park can improve mental and physical health

A black and white dog, sitting in flowers, wagging tail

Registration Required

Please email peacefullifecounseling@proton.me at least 24 hours prior to event you would like to attend. A liability waiver will need to be signed. The meet up location will be emailed to you upon receiving signed release of liability. Registration for single dates only, register for each date you plan to attend separately.

Prepare Yourself

Please note that Texas summer has extreme temperatures and you are walking at your own risk. You are responsible for bringing any needed items, responsible for your own health and well-being, and assume any risk in joining these walks.

Bring any and all items you may need for an outdoor walk. Some ideas include but are not limited to: proper walking shoes, sun protection (sunscreen, hats, cover ups, etc), water, first aid items, snacks/food, proper clothes and footwear, personal safety items, personal items you may need, etc.