My destination is no longer a place, but a new way of seeing.
~ Marcel Proust
FAQ's
If this is your first time hearing about Foresst Therapy, or you are generally curious about it, you probably have some questions about it. Below are some questions we feel most people have about this practice. If you still have more questions, please feel free to contact us.
Is this the same as Forest Bathing? Will I need to bring clothes to swim with?
Forest Therapy is similar to Forest Bathing in that you will receive the physiological benefits of the practice such as a decrease in stress, blood pressure, a relaxed mood, etc. Where it differs is that Forest Therapy also focuses on relationships, more specifically your relationship with mother nature and, subsequently, your relationship to self. Should your relationship with nature change from one that is transactional, always using and taking, to one that is reciprocal, then you may develop more compassion for all beings on this planet. As you develop space to have compassion for all, you may develop space to have love and compassion for yourself.
As for the swim wear, no, you do not necessarily need clothes to swim with on our guided walks. You are not literally taking a bath in water within a forest. You may, though, get wet!
Is Forest Therapy safe?
Yes, forest therapy is safe. We urge caution as anything could happen in nature, but each space chosen to do a walk is inspected for safety purposes. Before your walk, you will receive an email with information about what to bring to make your experience as safe and comfortable as possible. Your guide is also certified in Wilderness CPR/First Aid and will have an emergency first aid kit if anything happens.
What should I bring/wear?
As we are going into nature, one should be properly prepared. The walks range from 2.5 - 3 hours in length. We will be walking a lot of the time, but there will breaks as well. While Forest Therapy isn’t a hike, you can prepare for it just as you would if you were to be out in nature for a few hours: bring water, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and mosquito repellent. You will most likely have some time for quiet reflection so you could also bring: a towel or mat to sit on and a journal and pen.
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Dress comfortably. Depending on the weather, you may want to bring a raincoat or poncho, and something to keep warm (it’s mostly humid in Hong Kong though!). Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip and clothes that are lightweight. You may want to bring a hat and sunglasses as well.
What if the weather isn’t good (e.g raining)?
We will conduct our forest therapy walks in the rain as well, as it provides a unique perspective to the environment we’re in. We will cancel walks should the weather become too hazardous and unsafe for us to continue.
Is there anything I need to tell the guide in advance?
Please tell your guide if you have any medical conditions, injuries, disabilities, environmental allergies, or dietary restrictions that may impact your ability to complete the walk. If in doubt, contact us before you book for peace of mind.
What is your refund policy?
You may request a 50% refund if canceling more than 48 hours in advance. No refunds after that point.
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Forest Therapy with Koru will give as much notice as possible to all of our guests should we cancel for hazardous weather or ground conditions, guide’s incapacity, or if the venue closes for any reason.