Workshops

Step into the healing power of nature with a guided Shinrin Yoku session at the Arboretum in Guelph. Also known as “forest bathing,” Shinrin Yoku is a gentle, meditative practice that originated in Japan, inviting you to slow down, awaken your senses, and deepen your connection to the natural world. Over the course of approximately three hours, you’ll be guided through a series of mindful invitations to engage with the forest atmosphere in a way that promotes relaxation, clarity, and well-being. Whether you're new to the practice or returning for a deeper experience, this immersive journey offers a meaningful way to unwind and reconnect, with nature and with yourself. 

D'Arcy Meloche is a Registered Horticultural Therapist and certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide with over 25 years of experience helping individuals connect with nature for health and healing. Based in Guelph, Ontario, D'Arcy works as a Horticultural Therapist at Homewood Health Centre, where he supports therapeutic recovery through plant-based and outdoor programs. Eight years ago, he expanded his practice by earning qualifications in Nature and Forest Therapy, blending his deep horticultural knowledge with evidence-based techniques that invite restorative experiences in natural settings. His approach is grounded, compassionate, and rooted in decades of hands-on work with both plants and people.

Fee: $65 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of October 9, 2025. After October 9 the fee is $75 plus HST.

 

Mohawk Creation Story - Friday, September 26, 2025
The Story of the Flying Head (Scary) - Friday, October 31, 2025 
Story of the Three Sisters - Friday, November 28, 2025
Story of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy - Friday, December 12, 2025

Cara Loft is a Haudenosaunee Woman and staff member in the Office of Teaching and Learning at the University of Guelph. We are so grateful for her coming back to enrich our heart, minds, bodies and spirits through story this fall. This 4-Part series will take place the last Friday of September, October and November and the Second Friday of December.

We will start in a good way with song and smudge, moving into story and some land based learning. We will end in a good way with a closing song. Tea will be provided. .

This program is FREE. We do ask that if you register and can't make it that you notify us so that someone else can have your spot as space is limited. You can register for one or more of the sessions.

REGISTRATION COMING SOON!

Have you ever wondered what made those marks in the snow? In this full day program we will be learning how to track animals. We will be studying the tracks and signs of Ontario mammals and other types of wildlife. By the end of the day you will learn to identify and interpret animal tracks by looking at track patterns and gait analysis. The workshop will also include an introduction to scat identification. There is an outdoor component that will have us looking for and following animal tracks and trails. Please dress in layers to be outdoors and wear comfortable, warm boots. Recommended: Bring a notebook and a measuring tape to help with track identification.

The Arboretum Mammal booklet is included in the registration fee.

Fee: $97 (plus HST) per person if you register by the early bird deadline of January 30, 2026. After January 30 the fee is $107 plus HST.

 

 

This program is offered to specifc groups. If you would like more information please contact us.
Fee: FREE!
This online series is catered to University of Guelph international students and other community members new to Canada. New to the area? Come with us to explore The Arboretum and learn about what you can find in nature throughout the winter, spring, summer, and fall!
Visit the Nature Throughout the Seasons for International Students and New Canadians Series program page to learn more and register for upcoming dates. Please note that at this time this program is being offered to a special group instead of as a public program. If you are part of a group that is interested, please contact us for further information.