Woods, trees and paths to feel good (even after cancer):it's forest therapy, here's how it works

In the Sasso Simone and Simoncello Park, the path for diabetics (with check-up stations) and the one for disabled people are already ready, as well as places for hugging the trees.Restaurants will also arrive tomorrow

RIMINI – Woods, paths and nature they enter the treatment path of cancer patients in Romagna.With forest therapy becoming increasingly popular among its people beneficial effects on the psychological spheres, neurological, cardiovascular and immune, Ior, Romagna Oncology Institute, and its volunteers sign an agreement with theSasso Simome and Simoncello Park Authority to activate a series of forest therapy experiences to support therapeutic paths and training for students.With the "blessing" of Visit Romagna involved to support the inclusive tourism linked to health and well-being.The initiative, the mayor of Rimini and president of the Province Jamil Sadegholvaad confirmed to the press this morning shortly before the signing of the agreement, brings together "the beauty of nature and the well-being of people", also going to "promote the hinterland for the whole richness that it offers, not only from a tourist point of view".

As administrations, he continues, “we are committed to accessible, inclusive tourism;even disabled people have the right to enjoy their holiday with the best possible services".And from this point of view, he concludes, "our hoteliers are doing a great job".

THREE ROUTES, 5,000 HECTARES OF THE PARK

For now, three suitable routes have been identified, Park director Gianfranco Sorani goes into detail:a softer one in the beech forest of Pianacquadio, a harder one for the Cippo pine forest and the “Childhood of the World” trail linked to Tonino Guerra.Starting from spring, schools will also be involved.In the almost 5,000 hectares of park between the provinces of Rimini and Pesaro-Urbino you will be able to admire turkey oaks, white hornbeams, field maples, wild service trees, beeches and Hungarian maples, as well as many animal species, including wild cats, golden jackals and an eagle's nest, underlines president Lino Gobbi.

A GROWING PARK

Tomorrow, Saturday 28 September, the first group of 40 people will leave, and among the aims there is also scientific research.“The well-being of the people who come is associated with that of the people who live there”, remarks Gobbi: the park is very busy on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, “there are growth problems but also potential to be developed”.With more amenities, such as restaurants and a parking lot in the planning stage.Meanwhile, the reception area has been inaugurated and the path for diabetics with check-up stations and that for disabled people, in addition to the places forhug of the trees.

“For disabling therapies, starting with those for cancer, the approach to the person and not to the patient is decisive”, highlights the general director of the IOR Fabrizio Miserocchi.In this territory, he adds, there are "important survival capabilities, an advantage built over time".And this project, he concludes, is not only aimed at those who are ill and their families, it also has an “educational aspect” for schools and to work on prevention and well-being education.Without forgetting that "oncology drugs come from plants".

Here is the website of the Sasso Simone and Simoncello Park