Essentials to wear and bring to a guided forest bathing experience in Kansas City
If you’re preparing to participate in your first forest bathing experience in the Midwest, you may be wondering what you need to wear and what you should bring.
What to wear when forest bathing
Forest bathing generally happens outdoors, so your clothing should be weather-dependent. Layers are generally recommended, especially as we can see large temperature swings over a 2-3 hour period here in Kansas City. Forest bathing is about slowing down, so you probably won’t be getting your heart rate up; this means that if it’s a cool day, you may want to dress a little warmer than you would for a hike.
Make sure your clothing is okay to get dirty. You may be sitting on a rock or the ground, or walking through an area with a little mud.
If any rain or heavy mist is expected, make sure to wear a good raincoat or poncho. While forest bathing may be canceled in dangerous conditions, it is generally held rain or shine – and forest bathing in a gentle drizzle can be extra special!
Wear comfortable shoes; even though you won’t be walking a long distance, you will still want to ensure you have happy feet.
Ticks are a reality in Kansas and Missouri; if you are concerned about ticks, make sure to wear light-colored clothing and long pants tucked into your socks.
What to bring to a forest bathing experience
When packing for your forest bathing experience, make sure to bring these things:
· Bug spray – the most effective repellents contain Picaridin or DEET, although some forest bathers prefer natural insect repellents. These will help repel ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects you may encounter while outdoors
· Sunscreen – make sure to bring sunscreen to protect your skin. Even if the temperature isn’t hot, you can still get a sunburn.
· Hat and/or sunglasses – depending on the area you’re in for forest bathing, you may want something to shade your eyes.
· Water (in a reusable bottle) – you should always have water with you when doing any outdoor activities, and forest bathing is no exception!
· Snacks – a forest bathing experience can last 2-3 hours. You may want to bring a light snack that is easy to carry and won’t melt like nuts, a granola bar, or fruit just in case you get hungry.
· Allergy medications (including EpiPen if needed) – we’ll be outside, so if you have any seasonal allergies, it can be a good idea to take or bring any needed medication. In addition, if you have any allergic reactions severe enough to warrant an EpiPen, please bring that with you as well.
· Something to sit on – you may want to bring a small camp cushion, stool, or blanket to sit on during your forest bathing. Check in with your guide to see what they would recommend.
· Raincoat or umbrella – if there’s a chance of rain in the forecast, be prepared and bring your rain gear with you!
· Extra clothes and a plastic bag – if ticks are especially concerning to you, bring along a change of clothes and a plastic trash bag for your dirty clothes after the forest walk. This will allow you to change out of your clothes before the drive home.
Forest bathing guides will typically send you specific details about what to wear and bring before your forest bathing walk based on the time of year and location, but we hope this list helps you get ready and excited for the experience!