"When we first learned to walk, we walked just to enjoy walking. We walked and discovered each moment as we encountered it. We can learn to walk that way again." ~Thich Nhat Hanh
Where can I expereince Forest Therapy?
In your garden, cornfield, yard, orchard, etc.
On a public trail or park
At a preplanned event
Remotely in your home or anywhere your service may take you
In most weather, with a Guide
What is Forest Therapy?
Guided FOREST BATHING Experiences
Slow Walks on the land about .5 to 1.5 miles long & fit for all ages & physical conditions that last between 1 and 3 hours
Guided immersions in forests & other natural environments to promote the well-being of people & the land
Clearly defined sequence of invitations to slow down, allow the senses to open, & experience the environment to deepen relationships between participants & the forest
Trauma Informed -invitations are offered & participants participate however they feel comfortable and appropriate
Spending time in silence - listening & feeling with a quiet and accepting presence
Reconnecting with your senses & innate creative potential, which allows the imagination to awaken.
Wild Tending Experience: participants will be encouraged to touch the land & the beings upon it. Perhaps take a treasure home with them in the form of pebbles, bark, mushrooms, or moss.
Inspired by Shinrin-yoku, the Japanese practice of “Forest Bathing” where people spend time in forested areas to enhance health, wellness, and happiness
Who can participate in Forest Therapy?
-Artists/Writers looking for inspiration
-Therapists with their clients
-Organizations adding this to Employee Wellness events/activities
-Individuals & groups seeking land connection/spiritual practice/self care
-People seeking Digital Detox
-Schools seeking alternative activities for students
*I am neither a Maine State Guide, therapist, nor a naturalist.
These qualifications are unnecessary for me to
hold a safe space
for you to connect with the land and your inner self.
Your Guide: Constance Woodworth
The Forest is the Therapist. I open the doors to your senses.
I am thrilled for you to join me on this new experience being offered in and around the Kennebec River Valley of Maine! I recently earned my certification of Forest Therapy Guiding from the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs based in California.
For the last 14 years I worked in various capacities in the Maine public elementary school system spending most of my time In Skowhegan and Pittsfield schools. I have a long held passion for educating youths and their families about the importance of nature.
I enjoy hiking, reading, walking, gardening, herbal tea, raising chickens, learning new things, and spending time with our beagle, Chloe.
I hope to help my local community, and tourists to our beautiful state, create a stronger connection to the land we tread upon.
Reviews
"Forest Therapy has become a valued service to our residents at El Rancho De La Vida. Her weekly walks amongst the trails and forests on the GWH property are superb! Constance is calm, supportive, inspiring and informative, and highly recommended by all residents and staff. " Carrie S.
"Being a nature enthusiast, I always thought I had a good understanding of Nature, but Constance opened my eyes in a way that I never expected. By the end of the walk I had an emotional release and she was good at making me feel comfortable enough to do so." Jamie T.
"My friend and I were Connie's first clients. We walked in my vegetable and flower garden. The experience was overwhelming in a good way. I was made more aware of my haven by her calming voice and guidance. I found a real connection to my peaceful spot. Thank you and I look forward to a walk in the forest come Spring." Melodie B.
Forest Therapy for Children
I am a certified 020 Maine Teacher. I love working with children from 4-8 years old.
I also enjoy the challenge of working with tweens and teens to help their minds focus and their bodies regulate.
I believe that children do not spend enough time outside: Nature Deficit Disorder. Many children are now scared of nature because they are so removed from it. Nature can be very soothing and restorative for children.
Walks for children are 60-90 minutes long. Private bookings or School Group Bookings are available. Please contact me directly for pricing.
