Workshop

Join us for a virtual workshop with Ulf Bohman from Quiet Parks International.

Quiet Parks International works globally to protect and promote quiet natural environments—both in wilderness and urban settings—as essential for human health, biodiversity, and planetary balance. In this session, Ulf will present the mission to safeguard quiet and share practical ways to raise awareness and protect quiet green spaces in your own context.

The workshop will also explore how forest therapy guides and other practitioners can lead soundwalks in their communities, using them as an accessible introduction to deeper nature-based experiences, including forest bathing.

You will also be invited to take part in World Soundwalk Day on September 12—an opportunity to join a global network offering shared experiences centred on listening, presence, and connection to place.

Ulf Bohman began his career in public health, focusing on behaviour change. He later worked as a guide for leadership groups in the mountains, where he witnessed the powerful impact of quiet nature experiences. This led to the creation of the Guide to Silence project, first in wilderness settings and later adapted to urban environments. In 2019, this work evolved into his role with Quiet Parks International as Director for Urban Parks and board member.

Quiet Parks International is a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving quiet for the benefit of all life. The organisation raises awareness of the importance of silence and stillness by designating Urban and Wilderness Quiet Parks and Trails, as well as certifying Quiet Stays, Residences, Communities, and Conservation Areas. You can find out more about their organisation on their website https://www.quietparks.org/.

Brief itinerary

•  Introduction: Ulf Bohman and the path to Quiet
•  Quiet Parks International: mission and work in urban and wilderness settings
•  Understanding quiet: natural soundscapes, decibels, noise, and research
•  Short guided listening experience
•  Soundwalks in practice: formats, methods, and applications
•  From soundwalk to deeper engagement: links to forest therapy and other nature-based practices
•  Outreach and collaboration: reaching new audiences and partners
•  World Soundwalk Day: how to participate globally
•  Next steps for those who want to get involved