Participant Agreement
This guided forest bathing experience is a gentle outdoor experience that may include slow walking on natural terrain; standing, sitting, or lying on the ground or on provided seating; guided sensory and mindfulness invitations; periods of silence; optional group sharing; and travel within parks, trails, wooded areas, or other outdoor natural settings.
1. Adult representation and voluntary participation. I represent that I am at least 18 years old and am voluntarily choosing to participate. I understand that participation is optional and that I may decline any invitation, pause, or stop my participation at any time.
2. Acknowledgment of risks. I understand that outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, mud, roots, rocks, holes, branches, slips, trips, falls, insects, plants, allergens, wildlife, changing weather, sun exposure, temperature changes, wet conditions, limited cell service, the actions of other participants or members of the public, and other conditions associated with being outdoors.
3. Personal responsibility and physical limits. I understand I am responsible for honoring my own physical limits, wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, bringing water or any personal items I need, and informing the guide of any relevant access or safety concerns that may affect my participation.
4. Non-clinical nature of the event. I understand that these services are educational and experiential in nature. It is not psychotherapy, counseling, or crisis care; it does not establish a therapist-client relationship, nor is it a substitute for medical, psychological, or mental health care.
5. Safety expectations. I agree to follow all safety instructions given by the guide, remain on designated trails or approved gathering areas, respect land-use rules, and act in a way that supports the safety of the group and the surrounding environment.
6. Emergency assistance. If I become ill or injured, I authorize emergency medical care to be sought for me if reasonably necessary when I cannot make that decision myself, and I understand that I am responsible for any medical, transportation, or related costs incurred on my behalf.
7. Assumption of risk and release. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, I knowingly and voluntarily assume the risks of participating in the Activity and release, waive, and hold harmless Ancorio LLC; Stephanie Grunewald PhD, as guide and facilitator; and Ancorio LLC's owners, members, managers, employees, contractors, agents, volunteers, assistants, venue partners, landowners, and affiliated organizations (collectively, the "Released Parties") from claims, demands, damages, liabilities, losses, or causes of action arising out of or related to my participation in the Activity, including claims based on ordinary negligence. This release does not apply to conduct that cannot legally be waived, including gross negligence, willful and wanton misconduct, or intentional misconduct.
8. Governing law and severability. This waiver is intended to be interpreted under Illinois law. If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions will remain in effect to the fullest extent permitted by law.
I have read and agree to the Participant Waiver and Release, understand its contents, and am signing voluntarily.