Searching for answers? Looking for meaning? Longing for connection? Forest Therapy just might be the thing for you.
If you’ve spent any significant time outdoors just contemplating life, you know that there’s powerful energy in nature all around us. But did you know spending time forest bathing can actually be healing as well?
Science has proven time and time again what ancient civilizations and cultures have known for a long time: Spending intentional, focused time outside can be healing in every sense of the word.
Research shows that even just looking outside or just gazing upon an image of nature reduces stress and the harmful chemicals that stress releases into our bodies. We’ve all said, “I need to go outside and breathe in some fresh air.” There’s a reason for that! Nature is amazing. It truly provides everything we need to live a balanced and regulated life.
I recently watched a video with a neuroscientist who stated that when you are overwhelmed, going outside and finding a long view to rest your gaze on gives your brain space to calm down and re-organize your thoughts. The body will always work to heal itself, we just need to create the conditions.
So, what is Forest Therapy anyway?
Inspired by the Japanese science-art of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing), the modern practice of Forest Therapy encompasses spending mindful, guided time in nature leading to a boost in immunity, mood and holistic well-being, awakening creativity.
So be clear, this is not the modern version of “therapy” where I act as a “therapist,” but instead it is a therapeutic experience where together we create the conditions to help you find whatever it is that you are seeking – connection, healing, release, growth, transformation, play, creativity, or simply well-being.
As a guide, I offer invitations through an easy-paced two-hour experience to help you become fully present and perhaps hear the forest’s secrets.
Lowered heart rate, lower blood pressure, improved mental health, mood, reduce stress are all commonly reported.
Certain trees and plants release something called phytoncides which have been proven to increase our production of natural killer cells, boosting our immune system and overall wellbeing.
One of my favorite outcomes is the increased feelings of connection in nature and interdependence with all living beings. You’d be surprised how much that feeling can affect your everyday life for the better.
My Personal Experience, My Training
I believe in this so much that I moved my family from the “big city” that is South Florida to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and I the changes in my peace, calm and happiness are palpable. I loved Forest Therapy so much that immediately upon moving here (like the literal day after we moved LOL) I embarked on a months-long retreat course to become certified as a Forest Therapy Guide.
I’ve been in nature countless times, but never like this; never so intentionally. It was such a simple, yet magical and mystical experience. Not only did I find my center, my place among the forest beings, but also allowed the forest to envelope me in answers to questions I didn’t even know I had. I watched my colleagues experience every emotion in the book – joy, awe and wonder, tenderness…sharing, laughter, and even a few tears.
So what does a session look like?
We meet at a wooded location, usually a park or forested area. We will take a leisurely walk (no strenuous hiking!) and through a series of crafted invitations, we will open ourselves to the experience of the wilderness by focusing our senses and listen for the wisdom of the forest. We end with a lovely warm cup of tea.
Most importantly, this is a practice of choice. Whether you are an introvert who wants to have the experience and not say a word, or if you are the type to process your experience in a group setting, we have a safe space for you here.
For my sciency-types, if you want a giant list of articles to support all this research, just ask (or google it and see for yourself). There are a bajillion sources for everything above and it would just bog this blog, so I’m happy to provide upon request if you really want to read them.
To attend a group class, check out our offerings at our North Carolina Events by Graciela page. For more information or to book your session with Graciela in Murphy, North Carolina, reach out to Graciela directly at (828)214-5787.
You can also catch a Forest Therapy experience at our upcoming retreat in the North Georgia mountains: Four Elements Alchemy: Awaken the Goddess Within taking place June 2025. Talk about transformation! Check out the retreat page for all the juicy details. You won’t’ want to miss this!
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