Forest Bathing: Find Yourself in Nature

We are excited to host our first Forest Bathing Retreat with Benjamin Page, author of Healing Trees.

Forest Therapy, also known as Forest Bathing or “Shinrin-Yoku,” offers a pathway for people to remember how to immerse themselves in nature in order to rest from all that consumes them in their daily lives. It’s all about slowing down, connecting to our sensate bodies and cultivating relationships with the beings of the More Than Human World. This practice not only benefits our physical health by lowering stress, boosting our innate immune systems and restoring our attention, but also supports us in opening our hearts to receive the wisdom and gifts of nature. In offering our attention to the beings of nature, we may come to witness ourselves and know, deep in our hearts, that we are of the Earth and that we belong. We will also enjoy expressive arts in nature by creating in partnership with nature, leaves, sticks, flowers, seeds, rocks, sand…. Create freely with no specific outcome in mind – without the burden of needing it to be a certain way. Perhaps one of the most ancient modalities, expressive arts has fostered healing through self-expression for thousands of years. Today, we understand that this practice can improve cognitive and sensorimotor functions, foster self esteem and self awareness, promote insight and cultivate emotional resilience. Perfect for anyone seeking a journey towards the heart of being in search of spontaneity, harmony, paradox and the beauty of everyday experience supported by a like-minded and open-hearted community in beautiful nature settings.

COVID POLICY ( as of JAN 2025 ):  For your safety and ours, we require proof of vaccination AND negative test result from all visitors to Ratna Ling Retreat Center. We wish to provide peace of mind for all of our residents and guests.

Schedule (Subject to change):

FRIDAY

• 3 pm Check-in
• 4 – 5:15 pm Welcome & Sharing Circle
• 5:30 pm Dinner

SATURDAY

• 7am Meditation with George of Ratna Ling
• 8 am Breakfast
• 9:15 am -12 pm Forest Therapy Session One
• 12:15 pm Lunch
• 1pm Temple Tour (optional)
• 1 – 3:15 pm Quiet time, hiking, bodywork and massage by appointment, etc.
• 3:30 – 5 pm Expressive Art in Nature
• 5:30 pm Dinner

SUNDAY

• 8:00 – 9:45 am Forest Therapy Session Two
• 10 am Brunch
• 12 pm Check-out

For directions to Ratna Ling – Ratna Ling Retreat Center 35755 Hauser Bridge Rd Cazadero, CA 95421

Accommodations are beautiful lux cabins

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

• Transportation to/from Ratna Ling is NOT included – carpooling encouraged
• Payments are nonrefundable and transferable to a future Ratna Ling stay or retreat
• Each cottage includes TWO private rooms with queen beds, large dining & living area, gas fireplace,
• spacious deck, jacuzzi tub, linens/towels/hand soap, kitchenette with tea & coffee, complimentary wireless internet. Towels and hand soap are provided.
• vegetarian meals are served during our weekend together.

What people are saying about our retreats: