Forest Therapy Guides Have Been Officially Approved by the Agency
The forest therapy industry in Taiwan is experiencing significant growth, with the number of certified guides reaching an all-time high. As of last month, there were 89 certified forest therapy guides nationwide, reflecting the increasing popularity of this holistic approach to nature therapy.
In a recent certification ceremony held by the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, 55 newly qualified forest therapy guides were recognized, along with 34 guides who had previously earned the certification in 2023. This surge in certification reflects the increasing demand for forest therapy guides, who utilize forest resources to help visitors relieve mental and physical stress.
The agency's online platform has seen more than 8,000 people register as trainees, indicating strong interest in the field. The certification of forest therapy guides in Taiwan is managed by the Taiwan Forestry Bureau under the Council of Agriculture.
The forest therapy training program is distinct from the agency's training program for forest ecotour guides. While the latter focuses on teaching detailed forest knowledge, forest therapy guides' primary role is to help those less connected with nature explore the forest.
One such guide is Chen Yan-ling, who also works as an aromatherapist. She began training due to the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on her company. Learning forest therapy gave her more knowledge and resources applicable in aromatherapy.
Another guide, Lin Shih-yi, focuses on exercises and geriatric health, with the goal of making forests into 'green gymnasiums.' Lin, an outdoor activity enthusiast, believes forest therapy can be a solution to Taiwan's aging society.
Forest therapy is not limited to simple walks in the woods. Professional guides can help people explore the forest through their five senses and use activities such as meditation to achieve thorough relaxation. Local plants can be made into tea, providing aromas for visitors to smell in forest therapy sessions.
Not every forest is suitable for performing forest therapy; industry players are urged to choose proper locations and prioritize safety. The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency has held over 80 forest therapy events nationwide since October last year.
The Taiwan Forest Therapy Society began designing a forest therapy training program in 2017, incorporating lots of scientific forestry knowledge. The society aims to obtain the Ministry of Labor's International Competency Alignment Program certification for the forest therapy training program by the end of this year.
The forest therapy industry has been developed in many countries, including Germany, the UK, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. It is expected to help boost economies in mountainous and indigenous communities in Taiwan. Forest therapy guide Chen Yan-ling encapsulates the essence of this movement, saying, 'Forest therapy is not just about guiding people through the forest; it's about connecting them with nature and helping them find peace and tranquility.'
