Every time I guide a forest therapy walk, I learn something new—about nature, about others, and about myself. This past weekend was no exception. I had the privilege of leading a diverse group through the Golden Gate Redwood Memorial Grove, a space filled with towering giants and quiet wisdom. What made this walk even more special was that my son, who has been helping behind the scenes, joined me for the experience.
One of the things I love most about the ANFT (Association of Nature and Forest Therapy) way is how the invitations are sensory-based and open to personal interpretation. There is no right or wrong way to engage—just an opportunity to slow down, listen, and experience the forest in your own way.
For my son, that meant focusing entirely on a simple stick and a rock. His journey revolved around those objects, and he was completely immersed. Later, he admitted how nourishing it felt to be away from his usual fast-paced world, free of distractions and earbuds, simply allowing his creativity to guide him.
The Power of an Open Invitation
One of my favorite invitations of the day came from Amos Clifford, the founder of ANFT:
👉 Wander out and offer an act of kindness.
I love the openness of this—how each person finds their own way to interpret it. Some chose to show kindness to themselves, some to the land, and others to fellow walkers. It was beautiful to see how unique and meaningful each act became.
During the sharing circle afterward, I was reminded how we all experience the world through different lenses. One of the core practices of forest therapy is listening from the heart—without feedback, without judgment, simply holding space for others to be exactly as they are. This practice cultivates tolerance and deep acceptance, which often leads to profound and healing conversations.
Nature Art: Peeking Into the Soul
After a texture walk, where we explored the forest through touch and sensation, everyone returned to create a mandala, altar, or piece of nature art using what they had gathered.
Each creation was deeply personal, a reflection of the individual who made it. Some were delicate and intricate, others bold and expressive—each one a glimpse into the artist’s soul. I was touched by how much thought and emotion went into these simple yet profound offerings to the land.
Stillness Beneath the Giants
One of the most powerful moments for me was lying across a fallen redwood and simply listening.
I became so still—more still than I have been in a long time.
Then, I felt something magical.
Tiny, almost imperceptible raindrops landed on my face, mesmerizing in their gentleness. As I gazed up, the redwoods swayed softly in the breeze, their towering forms stretching into the sky. Later, I described the sensation to my youngest son, who smiled and said, “Oh, that’s called transpiration.”
How incredible—to feel a process that we usually only read about in textbooks.
Giving Back: A Win-Win for Land and Soul
At the end of the walk, I offered ways we can steward our parks—ways to give back to the land that gives us so much.
Reconnecting with nature isn’t just about what we receive; it’s also about becoming part of the ecosystem again. Inspired, I decided to become a park member, committing to return often with my family—not only to enjoy the land but to support it.
I also plan to offer more forest therapy walks here, creating opportunities for others to experience the same sense of wonder, stillness, and connection.
This experience reminded me why I do this work—why slowing down and listening to nature is so important. Each walk is a gift, an opportunity to be present, to heal, and to remember that we are not separate from nature—we are part of it.
Have you ever had a moment in nature that shifted something in you? I’d love to hear about it in the comments. 💚🌲
Interested in joining a forest therapy walk?
Stay tuned for upcoming sessions in Golden Gate Park. Let’s slow down, listen, and reconnect—together. www.somaticecotherapy.com🌿✨
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