- Now welcoming new nature therapy clients in mid-Missouri
Individual & Group
Guided forest bathing and nature immersion — mindful, sensory immersion in nature, shown to calm the nervous system, restore attention and creativity, and improve mood and immune system function — led one-on-one and in small groups by a clinical psychologist.
What It Is
Shinrin-yoku, also known as "Forest Bathing" — is the simple, evidence-based practice of mindfully immersing yourself in a forest environment. It isn't hiking, the forest itself is the destination. It's a slow and intentional practice designed to deepen your connection with nature and restore your psychological and physical well-being..
In Japan, research on Forest Bathing began in the 1980's, and evidence is impressive. Time spent mindfully immersed in the forest measurably lowers stress and cortisol, restores attention, concentration, and creativity, improves mood, and enhances the immune system function.
As a licensed clinical psychologist with an expertise in mindful meditation and 3 years of field study in forest bathing, I create a unique blend of evidence-based clinical practices and the art of Forest Bathing.
Ways to Work Together
Guided forest bathing sessions, locally on the trails of mid-Missouri — slow, sensory walks designed to deepen your relationship with nature and provide powerful psychological healing.
Forest bathing walks, nature immersion experiences, and half-day workshops for small groups — friends, teams, or newcomers who want to experience the practice together.
What a Session Is Like
We begin by reawakening your capacity for present moment awareness with a mindful meditation designed to open your awareness and awaken your 5 senses. At the trailhead, we pause to set intentions before transitioning into the practice of Forest Bathing.
I offer a variety of invitations and exercises to help you connect more deeply with the forest. Mindful walking, attending to each of the 5 senses, connecting on a deep physical and spiritual level with the trees and plant-life, and allowing the unique features of the forest to draw you gently into the present.
Once you've gotten a feel for the practice, we spend some time alone, moving intuitively towards what interests you, answering the call of the forest. This is where the forest does its deepest and most impactful work.
Whether in a group or 1:1, we pause to share our experience. Not to over-analyze or dissect the process, but to simply share in the joy of the forest. Finally, we end with a tea ceremony to celebrate the experience and enjoy one last mindful moment together.
Who It's For
For those running on empty, whose minds won't switch off, and who can't remember the last time they felt genuinely rested.
No experience, no special fitness level, and no need to be "outdoorsy." If you can walk slowly with frequent pauses, you can do this practice.
For those drawn to alternative forms of healing, the kind that happen outside of the doctor's office, and who want to experience deep psychological and spiritual restoration.
Book an individual session, organize a group event, or reach out to ask a question. Let's start a conversation about how to reconnect with Nature.
