Forest Therapy with Holly

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As a forest therapy guide, Holly is not just a companion on your walk; she is  a skilled professional who deeply understands the intricacies of this practice. She will mindfully guide you through both your external surroundings and internal experiences, providing essential support, especially should you feel uncertain or 'lost.'

Join Holly as your guide for Forest Therapy to:

1. Embrace a Slower Pace: slow down and fully engage with the natural environment, something that can be difficult in our fast-paced lives. By managing the pace and logistical details, Holly allows you to remain fully present in the moment.
2. Navigate the Forest Therapy Process: Forest therapy follows a specific yet adaptable process designed to enhance your sensory experience. Holly will ensure your journey is safe, authentic, and deeply immersive by skillfully leading you through this process.
3. Connect with Nature: Many of us aren't sure how to engage with nature meaningfully. Holly curates this connection with nature through thoughtfully crafted invitations, allowing you to disconnect from daily concerns and immerse yourself fully in the natural world.
4. Foster Community + Connection: During a guided session, you'll have the opportunity to share your experiences and listen to others in a supportive environment. This social connection is a vital and transformative aspect of guided forest therapy that is often missed when exploring alone.
5. Encourage Commitment: It can be challenging to commit to activities we know are beneficial. Working with Holly adds an element of accountability, encouraging you to follow through and fully participate in the experience.

Research shows a host of holistic health benefits that might include:

• Boosted immunity (increase in natural killer (NK) cells and anticancer proteins)
• Reduced stress 
• Reduced inflammation 
• Improved mood
• Improved mental health (reduced anxiety and depression, improved self-esteem)  
• Lowered blood pressure and heart rate
• Improved sleep
• Deactivated sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight)
• Activated parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest) 
• Regulated blood sugar 
• Improved concentration and short-term memory
• Increased creativity
• Fostered understanding of interdependence
• Increased feeling of social connection and empathy
• Improved spiritual well-being

Many of these health benefits are experienced through mindful particiaption with the forest, others benefits come directly from the trees. 

The trees emit aromatic organic compounds called phytoncides. Translated from Greek and Latin, it means “plant” and “killer.” As part of the tree's immune system, Phytoncides protect it from pests (insecticidal) and pathogens (antimicrobial). These phytoncides protect us too, because we evolved with trees. As we breathe them, they act on the autonomic nervous system to regulate stress hormonesand  enhance immunity. Phytoncides are responsible for reducing stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can lead to a heighten state of calm and synergistically helps to boost the immune system.