West Coast Notes

Forest Bathing Articles

Reflections and science-informed guidance on forest therapy, somatic stress recovery, nature connection, creativity, digital wellbeing, and practices that help people come back to their senses.

From Mirroring to Collective Effervescence: Why Shared Experiences Matter for Wellbeing
Wendy FigoneForest Therapy

From Mirroring to Collective Effervescence: Why Shared Experiences Matter for Wellbeing

A science-informed reflection on how mirroring, synchrony, shared attention, and nature-based experiences help people feel more connected, grounded, and restored. This article explores why Forest Therapy, community gatherings, and shared experiences in nature can support individual wellbeing, belonging, and healthier communities.
From Separation to Relationship: How Forest Therapy Reconnects Us with Nature
Wendy FigoneForest Therapy

From Separation to Relationship: How Forest Therapy Reconnects Us with Nature

What It Means to Be “In Relationship with Nature”

In forest therapy, we often say the forest is the therapist, the guide opens the door. Yet the deeper invitation is not only stress reduction or relaxation—it is remembering how to be in relationship again. As Jacques Cousteau wisely said, “People protect what they love.” When we slow down long enough to feel connected to the living world, care often arises naturally. Connection can become stewardship. Presence can become belonging.

Wendy FigoneRetreats & Events

Come see Chaminade's New Certified Forest Therapy Trail: July 12th or August 2nd.

You're warmly invited to come experience Chaminade's newly certified Forest Therapy Trail —a place where healing, reflection, and reconnection with nature come alive. I’ll be offering Forest Therapy walks , Nature Journaling sessions , and Self-Myofascial Release workshops and retreats designed to support deep rest and embodied presence. Come join us on this beautiful trail in Santa Cruz and explore the powerful connection between nature, body, and soul. Sign up here and feel free to reach out with any questions—I’d love to share this journey with you.