All forms of Nature Therapy, including Shinrin Yoku or Forest Bathing, encourage us to slow down, appreciate nature's beauty, and foster a deep sense of connection with the more-than-human world. Here’s what to expect from a session with me…

The Setting. Nature Therapy is available to us in just about any natural setting, including your own back yard. I have many favorite locations around the Puget Sound and am open to scouting new ones for your custom experience. I choose locations based on Safety, Accessibility, and Energy. Please be prepared with weather-appropriate clothing and personal comfort items. Electronics are discouraged.

Greetings and Intentions. Upon arrival, we will do introductions and acknowledgements of the land and each other. After some grounding exercises to bring ourselves into presence with our surroundings and each other, we’ll set intentions for the session. What would you like to share with the forest and what would you like to receive in return? The forest will witness, hold, and heal the burdens you carry.

Distance and Pace. During a typical forest bathing session, we walk a mile or less, and always at a pace that invites you to fully see and appreciate the beauty and interconnectedness of our surroundings. You’ll be encouraged to find a “sit spot” which may be enjoyed for 30 minutes or more before we depart. Some custom nature therapy trips (like rockhounding and fossil-hunting) may include longer and/or more rigorous hikes.

Invitations. Along the trail and during the time in our Sit Spots, you’ll be invited to more fully explore and experience our surroundings through a number of activities designed to engage all of your senses. These invitations are based on the 4 basic elements of Earth, Water, Air, and Fire. Walk barefoot, taste fresh pine needles, greet the wind…know the spirit of the forest.

Integration. At the end of the session, we’ll have time for reflection and contemplation. Bring a journal to record your thoughts. We’ll close our session with sharing and discussion over a local herbal tea and/or snacks. For the sake our planet and all that lives upon it, please take the practices you’ve learned home and teach them to your loved ones.