What is nature therapy?
Nature therapy is a practice that supports the wellbeing of both people and the planet. You can find out more about nature therapy and its benefits here.
Can I participate if I have mobility challenges?
Yes! Nature therapy walks are designed to be accessible to as many people as possible, regardless of their fitness level or physical ability. Walks only cover a short distance. Most public spaces that your guide operates in are wheelchair accessible.
Remotely guided walks are also a good option for people who have mobility issues but can use an internet-connected device, as participants are welcome to join from indoors or somewhere close to home, such as a verandah or garden.
Please feel free to get in touch and discuss your needs before you book.
Are nature therapy walks suitable for children?
While nature therapy is accessible to people of any age, public walks are more suited to people aged 13 and over. We recommend booking a private walk if you have younger children so we can tailor the experience to suit their ages.
How does a remotely guided walk differ to a face-to-face walk?
On a face-to-face walk you will meet up with your guide and other participants at a predetermined location whereas on a remotely guided walk you choose where to physically locate yourself – this can be outdoors or indoors – and you interact with your guide and other participants through an online video call. Otherwise the experience is fundamentally the same.
On a remotely guided walk you won’t be looking at a screen the whole time – you will have several opportunities to explore your surroundings or engage with nature objects. You just need to stay within earshot of your device so your guide can call you and the rest of the group back together.
What should I wear and bring to a face-to-face walk?
Wear clothing that you feel comfortable in and flat shoes, such as sneakers or sandals. Bring a bottle of water, sunhat, sunscreen, wet weather gear and additional warm layers. You may wish to bring a small daypack or bag to carry these items in so that you can keep your hands free while exploring!
What do I need to know to join a remotely guided walk?
You can use any type of device that has an internet connection – for instance a mobile phone, tablet or laptop. You may wish to consider using headphones or an ear piece if you want to have your hands free at times or if you need more privacy.
Make sure you have downloaded the Zoom app on your device before the session begins and have sufficient mobile data or a stable internet connection.
Dress appropriately for the location you have chosen to participate from. If you will be outdoors make sure you have suitable gear and clothing (see question above) and are aware of any potential hazards. If you will be indoors gather some nature objects, e.g. a pot plant, leaves, stones or shells.
You may like to bring a drink and some snacks.
How long is a nature therapy walk?
Most walks are advertised as being two or two-and-a-half hours in duration. All walks will follow the same overarching sequence but many things can influence the pace, such as the number of participants or the physical layout of the venue. Please plan to be available for the full amount of time indicated when you book – you don’t want to be thinking about other appointments during the walk. Having time at the end to relax, reflect, chat with others, and perhaps enjoy some refreshments, is an important part of the experience.
What will happen if the weather is bad?
Face-to-face walks will usually go ahead rain or shine (or wind). However, if severe weather conditions are forecast or conditions at the location have become hazardous, your guide will cancel the walk. Where possible, you will be contacted the day before your scheduled walk time.
If you are participating in a remotely guided walk, please check the weather forecast in your area and prepare accordingly. Be prepared to change your plans so that you are safe, for instance moving to an indoor or more sheltered location if severe weather is forecast.
What is your cancellation policy?
A full refund will be given if you cancel at least seven days before your walk, minus any service fees that Wellspring Nature Therapy has incurred from a third-party event ticketing agency.
If your guide needs to cancel the walk, for instance due to severe weather conditions or public health concerns, you can choose either a full refund or to reschedule to a later date.
How are you operating during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Wellspring Nature Therapy is closely following all guidelines and requirements implemented by the New Zealand Government. Face-to-face walks will only be held where we are confident that physical distancing and other safety practices can be maintained.
