About this Event
"Healing Trees" is offered as a gift to the people of Maui after last year’s tragic wildfires. This monthly series of mindful walks is inspired by the practice of Shinrin-yoku (translated as “forest bathing”) that began as a public health initiative in Japan. Today, forest bathing is a growing global wellness movement backed by more than 40 years of scientific research on the physical and mental health benefits of immersing yourself in nature.
On your 2-hour forest bathing experience at Pacific Biodiesel's founders' sunflower farm in Maui's central valley, you'll learn more about this evidence-based practice. Your certifed forest therapy guide will lead you into the "forest" of rows of sturdy stems and bright flowers, and offer a series of sensory-opening "invitations" to help you find your own personal connection with the land and with the amazing sunflower! And a very special BONUS: participants will also get to prepare native seeds or seedlings that will be planted in the future in Kula, in areas damaged by the fires.
Forest bathing is a highly interactive and respectful experience, you'll have opportunities to sit quietly in contemplation, as well as share with others in the small group, all at a safe physical distance outdoors.
Adults and families with children 12-years-old and up are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
Because this is a working farm, fully exposed to the sun, please prepare by wearing:
- closed-toed shoes as we'll be walking on rocky, uneven terrain (REQUIRED)
- a wide-brimmed hat that will stay securely on your head (it can be windy)
- long sleeves, long pants, and crew socks (above the ankle)
- sunglasses and sunscreen.
You should bring:
- your own filled water flask
- a small towel or mat to sit/lie on (we will be sitting on the ground)
- a rain jacket or waterproof poncho (if it promises to be a rainy day)
- a small backpack to carry your stuff (you'll want to keep your hands free to touch)
- garden gloves (optional) if you prefer not to get your hands dirty when we plant
- masks are optional; social distancing encouraged.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- honeybees will be present at the farm at this time, pollinating the blooming flowers.
- there are no restrooms at the farm. Closest restroom is .25 miles away at Maui Tropical Plantation.
As part of your registration, we ask that you also complete this secure online waiver form.
For more walks throughout 2024 showcasing some of Maui's most beautiful green spaces and healing trees, go to bit.ly/healingtreesmaui.
The Healing Trees series is participating in research conducted by the University of California, San Diego's Department of Psychiatry on the effects of forest bathing as an effective therapy for climate trauma. All participants are encouraged to respond to the pre- and post-walk surveys and cognitive tests. You will receive an email directly from UCSD's . For completing both the pre- and post-walk surveys and tests, you will receive a $10 Amazon giftcard.
- You will also be asked to share an email of a family member who is NOT going on the forest bathing walk and they will be contacted to answer the same surveys and tests. (They are the "control" subjects). They will also be able to receive a $10 Amazon gift card on completion.
Healing Trees: A Series of Free Forest Bathing Walks for Maui is presented by and . With this series, we are also hoping to encourage a handful of Maui residents to embark on the 6-month online training to become certified forest therapy guides. Their long-term, active service on the island will assist in the ongoing healing from the trauma of the wildfires. Your donation will support these efforts. Donate when reserving your tickets. (Donations are not tax-deductible.)
MAHALO NUI LOA to , , , and all our location partners for their generous support.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Pacific Biodiesel Technologies, LLC – Founders Sunflower Farm, 20.822901 156.506560, Wailuku, United States
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