The Sanctuary, Yundi is our private National Park Sanctuary. We are north of Mt Compass - less than an hour from Adelaide CBD (45 minutes from Glenelg).
This event is a special opportunity to access this pristine and protected environment to experience an incredibly peaceful, restorative connection with nature.
Forest Bathing is not about bushwalking or nature identification, or ‘thinking’. It is also not about swimming or getting wet - it's about 'bathing' ourselves in the natural environment. It is an opportunity to engage our 5 senses - listening, touching, smelling, tasting and seeing as we allow ourselves to just ‘be’ in nature. The experience involves guided ‘invitations’ to help us connect with nature, calm our busy minds, perhaps be playful and have some fun and is tailored to the needs of the group.
Nature connection supports the development of sensory awareness, physical skills, emotional regulation and connecting with others in a group - plus many other benefits. As an occupational therapist I know that all of these can support our ability to do the things we need, want and have to do every day.
In a world where people of all ages are increasingly disconnected from nature, a deliberate nature-based experience such as this can help us access the wellbeing benefits of nature.
The Sanctuary is 82 acres, with most of the bush protected by a Heritage Bush Agreement since 1993. The property is also a private National Park Sanctuary. We have the beginning of the Finnis River running through the property and it has been running all summer as it is also spring fed. There are rare species of plants, birds and animals. We see many many blue wrens every time we are there, as well as 'vulnerable' yellow tail black cockatoos, beautiful little scarlet robins and bright yellow golden whistlers. There are kangaroos, koalas and echidnas. The river is unbelievably beautiful and a rare example of a very healthy ecosystem with reeds, fallen trees, lots of fish, yabbies and dragon flies. We have a large forest of blue gums as well as enormous stringy barks that are flowering now. The Sanctuary is a sensory delight and stepping out of the car after driving from the city is a beautiful experience to inhale the clean, scented air.
FAQs
Where will we meet?
When you register you will receive a link to the visitor information for The Sanctuary, Yundi. Access is very easy from the Southern Expressway, Victor Harbor Rd, and turn off before Mt Compass - with bitumen road all the way.
Will I be safe?
I have a current first aid certificate and will be carrying a first aid kit. There is mobile phone reception where we will be. Please advise any particular health concerns that may be relevant. Please feel free to contact Bronwyn to discuss any concerns on 0412404700.
This event is held on our bush property - we will be walking across uneven ground and across rocks in the creek as well as on slopes. You will require a reasonable level of mobility to feel comfortable on this walk.
What should I bring into the event?
We will go ahead regardless of the weather so dress appropriately during this change in seasons and bring waterproof clothing in case of rain. Consider wearing/bringing an extra layer as well as beanie (hat), gloves and scarf if it's cold or windy. If sunny then suncream and a shady hat are recommended.
Also - a drink bottle of water, and any special snacks you may want. A simple snack (usually fruit) and place specific tea will be served as part of the experience. If you or anyone in your group have any dietary restrictions or allergies please contact the organiser at flourishnaturebasedot@gmail.com to advise prior to the event.
How can I contact the organiser with any questions?
e-mail flourishnaturebasedot@gmail.com or phone Bronwyn on 0412404700
For bookings click here.