Transforming Ourselves Through The Gift Of Nature Connection -
Inspirations From The Earth
Life can be full of challenges and this past 18 months certainly provided more than it’s share. Amongst those, a global pandemic, catastrophic wild fires and a reckoning with our history of racial and gender oppression. As we begin to emerge from the pandemic, how will we allow these times to transform us?
Several years ago I came across this meme that really spoke to me. (I thank the creator though unfortunately, I don’t know the source to apply proper credit.)
It feels fitting now as we consider what we want to plant in the garden of our lives. Nature is such a powerful healer. Our bodies, our minds, our nervous systems evolved in connection with the natural world.
Studies show that those in a hospital room recovering from illness or surgery recover faster and their moods are better when they had views of nature. Time in nature fosters our creativity, supports our mental and physical resilience and brings us in connection with feelings of joy and wonder.
I lead a series of virtual forest bathing experiences during the pandemic with folks joining from around the United States and around the globe. Those were quite fun and created a way to connect more deeply to the nature around our homes. Many, including myself were surprised and inspired by how profound the experience could be in our own yards and driveways that we are within reach of every day. I’m sure I will continue offering those from time to time.
This was my ecosystem I shared with participants of my Virtual Walks during the Pandemic. Each person sharing from wherever they were in the world. Surprising the depth of connection available in our own yards.
A few weeks ago I did my first in person nature experience in 18 months. This was a custom one created for a client’s sister as she transitioning from university student to Phd graduate. We did a forest walk, kayaked on the Pacific Ocean and visited cliffs to watch the sea interact cliff and cave.
What a treat to be able to share the forest with guests again.
Now that in person experiences have become an option again, I have several opportunities for you to join. But first rather than telling you what you’ll receive, I wanted to share the words (with permission) from my client, sent to me the day after the event:
I woke up just so full of thankfulness for our day yesterday. The transformation that occurred in the forest for all of us was exactly what I was hoping for. The days activities and fun so far exceeded my expectations!
I saw my sisters face relaxed and happy in a way I haven’t seen in a long time. I will hold in my memory the sight of when we were sitting at the tea ceremony and she was in the light, when she is super happy she thrusts her chin in the air and smiles. She said this experience was exactly what she needed.
Ryan had such strong awareness about releasing judgment and knowing whatever path he picks for himself is his choice and no one else’s.
I put worry and anxiety into my funky pine cone at the entrance. And at first I thought that was all worry about me, but I realized it was the worry I always carry for my sister. I’ve always carried this feeling of responsibility.
But in the woods yesterday I realized I don’t need to worry , look at her, she is beside me here , perhaps all the worry I put out into the universe actually holds her back, so instead release that and replace it with this is my family and we will go through life together and celebrate each other and continue to have adventures like this together.
Gregg! You certainly put so much thought and effort into the day. I felt full trust in you, and it was your energy and presence that allowed me to fully relax and just experience the day.
We are all basking in the afterglow of the day, what a remarkable experience you helped bring to life. I think what makes it so powerful , is your ability to show up as you, by sharing and being genuine in our circles. I never felt you had an agenda, like this is the way we are “supposed “ to absorb the day.
It felt like a very open judgement free safe place to explore. There were times you almost seemed an extension of nature, almost like a talking piece for her. Your connection to the natural world is so palpable and beautiful. The day was so amazing I can’t thank you enough, you have such a gift.
Jackie Hulce DVM
Your experience of course will be your own. Through a series of guided invitations, each person has an experience that is unique to them. Along the way we have many opportunities to share our journeys with each other, deepening the experience for all and learning from each other as we go. And perhaps learning a bit more about ourselves.
If you’d like to gather with family, friends or coworkers and experience each other in a unique way that builds connection and cohesion,
come join one of my upcoming public walks.
Or contact me and let’s design your own custom retreat from a few hours to a full day or more with a location and theme of your choosing.
You can also join me for some forest bathing experiences at this years
If you’d like to attend, contact me for a discount code on tickets.
I look forward to sharing some time in nature with you.
Join my next public walk this Friday in Presidio Park.
From a lookout in Presidio Park.