Connect to Wilderness
An Invitation to slow down and open your senses
Take a Walk with a Forest Therapy Guide
For millennia our ancestors had a close connection to nature. Sadly this has been largely severed as people become increasingly isolated from the natural world. It’s perhaps not surprising then that research shows being in nature, particularly forests, improves health, creativity and concentration. Some scientists have even discovered that the concept of an ‘internet’ is not new. Trees have had an internet for millions of years. So what’s Nature’s internet like? Can humans somehow ‘log-on’? Perhaps a slow walk submerging ourselves in the forest will further enhance the benefits of spending time in nature. Please join me on a forest therapy/forest bathing walk to explore these and other ideas.
Everyone is Welcome!
The forests, mountains, lakes and oceans are our ancestral homes. I believe they are part of your home regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or culture. My heart tells me this: and I am absolutely certain nature would agree. If you are interested in coming on a walk; then I am delighted to be your guide.
Benefits
Boost Your Immune System
Aromatic oils released by trees increase the activity of the body’s natural killer cells.
Lower Blood Pressure
Among other documented changes that affect blood pressure, sympathetic nerve activity is reduced.
Improve Mental Clarity
Measurable improvements in creative problem solving have been documented
Enhance Creativity
In nature, the brain is more open to reflect, daydream and wonder, which boosts creativity.As study published in 2012 documented, systematic changes in higher-level cognitive function associated with immersion in nature.
Relax
Cortisol a stress hormone is reduced - just one of the documented stress reducing benefits
Connect
Re-establish and explore the spiritual relationship our ancestors had with the natural world.
Mobility Issues
Forest therapy 'walks' can be adapted. If you or a person in your party has mobility or other issues; contact me directly and we can make adjustments. There are accessible trails in the area. It is also possible to do a "walk" from a static location and even inside if that is the best alternative.
For more information about the health benefits visit the Association of Forest and Therapy Guides and Programs Science page.
Upcoming Events
Reserve your ticket for a public walk or schedule your own private walk. Social distancing policies will be followed during walks based on the most current state guidance. All equipment will be cleaned after use. Whether you choose to join a walk or not; I encourage you to take time every day to go outside and wander, even if it's just a walk in your yard or sitting on the doorstep breathing the fresh air, soaking in the sunlight and noticing with all your senses everything around you. To register for walks when they are scheduled, go to the Calendar.
Want to Host A Forest Therapy Guided Walk?
Jeanne can work you to lead a forest therapy guided walk designed for you and your friends or professional colleagues. She can lead a walk during a conference or workshop, hold wellness walk for employees, celebrate a birthday or upcoming wedding or simply have a walk friends. To find out more visit here and contact her!
Other activities that can be scheduled include: The Language of Nature/Healing Plants Walk, Night Walk, Forest Guided Garden Consultation and Forest Bathing with Your Dog.
Meet Jeanne Christie
Certified Forest Therapy Guide
Registered Maine Guide
Hello! My name is Jeanne Christie. I am a Certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs as well as a Registered Maine Guide with extensive outdoor experience including hiking, camping, trail running, backpacking, canoeing, skiing, snowshoeing and more. If you want to go fast, I'm not a good fit. If you want to go slow: get close with nature and develop deep connections, please explore this website and sign up below to get on the Connect to Wilderness mailing list.
Here is a little more about my qualifications. Maine Master Naturalist, Certified Natural Interpreter, Volunteer leader Maine Chapter Appalachian Mountain Club for over a decade. Current in Advanced Wilderness First Aid Certification. Wilderness Education Association Graduate.
I also have many years of experience supporting protection of our nation's national resources. You can find out more about it at Christie Consulting Services, LLC or by reading about me in Portland Magazine's November 2019 issue about the 10 Most Intriguing People in Maine.
Join the Mailing List to Learn about Future Walks/Activities
Contact
Phone
Location
207 370-7011
Jeanne at Connect To Wilderness dot com
Windham, ME
"The Forest is the Therapist. The Guide Opens the Doors."
-M. Amos Clifford, Founder of the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs