The Four Cornerstones of Our Practice

 

 

① The world of the five senses: Sensory connection

Synchronize with the rhythm of nature through your five senses

We live in a modern world where our daily lives are overflowing with information.
We are thus experiencing less and less with our five senses.

To restore sensory balance, our programs activate and fully utilise the five senses to regain your sensitivity to the world, and fully experience the nature of Yakushima in the present moment. By doing so, you will begin to more fully synchronise with the nurturing rhythms of nature.

② To the liminal world between human and nature

At KaleidoForest, we have combined Japanese nature-based philosophy with international Forest Therapy practice to developed a unique method of re-opening one’s senses in the forest. By reacquainting ourselves with our sensory perception and tuning into the fluctuations of nature, you can connect with the wisdom, sense of security, and vitality of the forest—where diverse beings coexist in harmony. In doing so, you also come face to face with your inner self. This liminal area where people and nature fuse and intersect is what we call <strong>awai</strong>.

Through deep Shinrin-yoku®, we will guide you into the in-between world of awai.

3. A relational approach that connects people and nature

At KaleidoForest, we have studied the methodology of ANFT*, an international forest therapy organization, and have developed a unique approach that combines Japanese culture and spirituality. Based on a relational approach that is rooted in the natural world—where everything is wholly interconnected—we offer experiences and programs that help people to remember that they are a part of nature… that they are, in fact, nature itself.
*Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT)

Differences with typical forest bathing: Conventional forest bathing involves activities such as walking and observing nature, and aims to improve physical and mental health by spending time in the forest. However, KaleidoForest's programs, guided by a certified Forest Therapy trainer, aim to restore each person's innate vitality by opening up their physical senses and deepening their connection with the forest. What's unique about this program is that it not only provides a sense of well-being, but also leads to self-awareness, changes in perception, and even total transformation.

A relational approach not only involves connecting and rebuilding relationships between people and nature, but also reconnecting with ourselves and with others.

In the forest,

The concepts and ideas that we separate, analyse, and judge unconsciously every day, such as:
Good / Bad
Human / Nature
Logical / Sensuous
Masculine / Feminine
Social Self / True Self

also undergo a process of deconstruction and reconnection—a process which culminates in regaining the wholeness within oneself.

④The role of the guide: The forest is your therapist　

“The Forest is the Therapist, the Guide opens the door”

The forest itself becomes your therapist.

Your guide will be there to help open the door, and take you beyond its threshold and into a journey through the forest.

Your guides will create a safe and secure space so that you can connect with the forest from the deepest, innermost levels of the self, and engage in healing and constructive dialogue with the forest.