Pinnacle Forest Therapy

Immerse yourself in the healing power of nature with a relaxing nature and forest therapy walk in Jackson County with Dr. Mark Ellison, a certified Nature and Forest Therapy guide.

A forest therapy walk, or Shinrin-Yoku, is simply spending leisurely time in nature to experience scientifically-demonstrated health benefits. Shinrin-Yoku originated in Japan, where it has been enjoyed for decades as a regular public health initiative. Mark helped introduce Shinrin-Yoku to the United States in 2012 after collaborating with Dr. Qing Li who helped start the practice in Japan. A guided forest therapy walk allows you to slow down, encourages sensory awareness, and opens the door for you to experience the restorative power of nature. On a walk, guests will be invited to relax, slow down and connect with the natural world by awakening the senses. Through a series of guided invitations, guests will experience the sounds, smells, sights, tastes and feeling of the forest around you. Listen to the birds singing in the trees, or feel the cool water flowing in the creek, or just gaze into the forest or sky cradled by the awe inspiring beauty of nature. The walk will end with a tea foraged safely from the land. The walks offer health benefits supported by a growing body of scientific research from around the world that includes lowered blood pressure, heart rate and stress levels, an increased ability to focus, bolstered immune system and enhanced creativity and cognitive functioning.