Hike FullNature Therapy Walk

Forest Therapy is a research based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in nature. Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of “Shinrin-Yoku” – literally translated as “taking in the forest atmosphere”. Scientific studies have shown that time spent in nature supports the immune and cardiovascular systems as well as increasing creativity and boosting one’s sense of well-being and awe. In addition, Forest Therapy also helps us to remember we are a part of nature, not separate from it; that we are connected to all beings and the earth. Join Fran Mills for this unique experience on the Abbey Gardens property. Suitable for families. No dogs, please.

HIKE #: 24

DATE: Saturday, September 21

START TIME: 1:00 pm

DURATION: 2.5 hour, 1.5km

LOCATION: Abbey Gardens, 1012 Garden Gate Dr.

RATING: Easy

MAXIMUM # 20

AMENITIES: Parking, and washrooms, shelter, food, water/beverage nearby

LEADER: Fran Mills

LEADER BIO: Born in the city but drawn to the wild places, Fran Mills has made being in nature her destination of choice. She spent her early days playing along the creeks that ran near her childhood home and afterward, sought out wooded areas wherever she went. A few years of working in the city and fate brought her north to cottage country and eventually to the farm. What was initially a possible change in life direction from many years as a baker, has become her passion. She is a Certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and a member of the Global Institute of Forest Therapy. She lives on the edge of the Canadian Shield, tending her 50 acre property, running an Airbnb and inviting willing participants to wander the forest with her. For more information about Forest Therapy contact Fran on facebook at Simcoe Muskoka Forest Therapy

DIRECTIONS: From Minden take Hwy 35 north to Carnarvon (approximately 13km), turn right (east) on Hwy 118 Follow Hwy 118approximately 11km to Garden Gate Drive. (If you come to Lakeside Golf Course on the right you have gone too far). Turn right on Garden Gate into Abbey Gardens. The distance from Minden is approximately 24km. From Haliburton follow Hwy 118 past Lakeside Golf Course to Garden Gate Drive. The distance from Haliburton is approximately 15km.

Please park beside Haliburton Highlands Brewing and meet the facilitator across the lot at the side entrance to our gardens. GPS coordinates: N 45.1053, W 78.6168