Forest Therapy for Women

Let me introduce myself...

My name is Susan and I am a certified sylvotherapist  (yes, it’s a real thing and not just an excuse to hang out with trees) and a biologist with a knack for understanding how nature can help us navigate life’s ups and downs. I have a story or two that I’m sure you can all relate to in some way or another and let’s face it, we are all going through “something”. 

After life gave me lemons, I searched for the worlds finest lemonade recipe!  In other words, this was the hand I was dealt and I had no choice but to face my reality , make the best of a bad situation and embark on a journey of healing. As a biologist and outdoor enthusiast, I already had an overwhelming appreciation of all things great and small but the trauma I was going through, shifted my relationship with nature and I soon discovered that the forest had a greater gift for me and a remarkable way of soothing my soul. 

We have all been on a hike or spent time in the outdoors, but slowing down and using all five senses to connect intentionally is a powerful antidote to life’s stresses and chaos. 

But wait, there’s more! Forest therapy among a fantastic group of like minded women who “get it”  enhances the experience in a magical way (no, not hocus pocus magic). Nothing unites people like the realization that we’re all just trying to keep our heads above water while pretending to have it all figured out and realizing that we’re all gloriously messy humans trying to get through this thing called life with a little less mess and a little more joy. 

Now, let’s delve into the perks of Shinrin-Yoku or forest therapy because it’s not just a buzzword thrown around by outdoorsy types in flannel. And by the way, forest therapy and forest bathing are interchangeable. I will stick with forest therapy because the “bathing” part often sends people down the wrong path thinking we are wood nymphs prancing around in bikinis (not). Studies reveal that immersing yourself in nature can alleviate stress, lower your blood pressure, elevate your mood, and even enhance your immune system. So while you’re busy channeling your inner woodland spirit, you’re also giving your body a much-needed respite from life’s hectic pace. It’s like a vacation for your mind—minus the overpriced cocktails and the risk of sunburn or a spa day, but with trees and fewer cucumbers on your eyes!

Here’s a glimpse of what a session looks like and what is does not look like. First off, I hate to disappoint you but, no bathing suits please. Now that we have that out of the way, it also does not involve working up a sweat. Forest therapy is not a fitness hike and it is not a long hike. You will need some good footwear for rocks, roots and uneven surfaces.  I will lead you through a series of mindful exercises to help you ground yourself while surrounded by nature , engaging with all your senses and connecting with living things with conscious intention.   Imagine this: you’re surrounded by trees and water, I will lead you through your practice, encouraging you to let go,  seek pleasure in presence, inhale the scents and exhale all those pesky worries.  We will use “sit spots” to take some quiet time to notice textures, colors, sounds and I will invite you to share with one another as much or as little as you like . You’ll feel Zen—until the squirrel that’s been judging you with his side eye finally makes a move and don’t inhale too deeply— pine needles can be a bit prickly! All joking aside,  relaxation and clarity is guaranteed and you may even experience parts of the forest ( and maybe of yourself) like it’s the first time. Our session ends with a tea ceremony (and a few treats) to give gratitude and appreciation for the connections and gifts received. 

If you’re ready for an adventure, the forest will be your therapist and I your guide,  

Into the Woods we go….. to free your mind and ground your soul - Susan