The Forest Therapy Hub
The Forest Therapy Hub (FTH) is a group of professionals from different countries offering innovative and unique training programs based on their real applied professional experience and practical implementation of scientific evidence. The goal is to mobilize and lead the interdisciplinary field of nature-based and science-based health and wellness practices, promoting an interaction between people and nature that supports the restoration of their health and well-being.
Forest Therapy Hub designs and implements training programs in skills applicable to students’ professional practices in a variety of disciplinary fields: ecotourism, wellness practices, coaching, social work and education, occupational therapy, preventive medicine, and clinical therapy, among others. It also aims to create, evaluate and consolidate models of nature-based interventions for specific groups as well as establish a strong international network of professionals with the goal of exchanging knowledge, sharing experiences and supporting local traditions.
What is Forest Therapy
Forest Therapy is a practice that in recent years is becoming very popular and is based on a well-defined assumption, that people can combat stress and improve their health and mood by connecting with nature. It is a true contemplation and meditation in the midst of trees and forests and involves a minimum of physical activity: a forest therapy session, in fact, begins with a muscular awakening, continues with a long walk and ends with a meditation session. Forest Therapy aims to promote positive states of psychophysical health, improving the connection with nature (nature connectedness), interpersonal relationships and social cohesion.
The western approach to this practice has focused on the biochemical aspect, and therefore on the substances emitted by trees. Trees in fact produce monoterpenes (elements that make up the essential oils) that have a beneficial effect on the immune system. Forest therapy also helps to keep stress levels under control, the main cause of many diseases. It helps fight depression and keep negative thoughts at bay.
