I’ve been guiding, mentoring and teaching in the Forest Therapy tradition since early in its introduction to Canada, and have seen the growth of that professional landscape.

As this new and growing professional landscape is evolving there is a big pull in my heart to broaden the discussion around nature connection work and its potential for supporting personal resilience beyond the traditional way we thought of forest therapy. 

I thought it might be helpful to share why we at Naturally Resilient began training for DUAL Certification as Nature Connection Facilitators, and Forest Therapy Guides.

Intuitively we know that spending time in nature helps us feel better- mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.

When we combine the natural benefits of spending time in nature with a simple mindfulness practice that reinforces the neurology of connection, we amplify those benefits for a lifetime, and build resilience in our daily life.

Retired Forester shares health benefits of walking through the forests of Nakusp.

Author: Rachael Lesosky, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Credit: Nelson Star