By Kelly Bruce, certified nature and forest therapy guide and owner of Natural Wanders Here in western North Carolina, we are still reeling from Hurricane Helene. Many lives, homes and jobs were lost in the wake of this natural disaster. Power and water still elude many homes and businesses in Asheville, Black Mountain, Hot Springs, Marshall, Swannanoa, Bat Cave and Chimney Rock. And while it might appear from a distance that things are getting “back to normal,” some towns are forever changed. Those of us whose lives and homes were spared will tell you “We’re OK.” But I would argue that while we are safe, we are far from OK. We never imagined this kind of devastation would come to our mountain towns. We felt sheltered and safe in these mountains. I’ve often described the Blue Ridge Mountains as elders, cradling us in a welcoming embrace. Helene reminded us of the force of nature – and that there is no safe haven in this changing climate. Many of us - or our ancestors - chose to make our homes here because of the beauty and sacredness of this region. We are nature lovers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. We spend every chance we get on the trails, rivers and creeks because it soothes our souls and quiets our weary minds. Now, many of our favorite places are closed as roads and trails are cleared and rebuilt. This not only affects our mental and physical health, it affects tourism, a large part of our economy. As we begin the slow and tedious task of recovery, we are also carrying the grief, the uncertainty, and the anxiety that the tumultuous experience of a natural disaster has thrust upon us. Many now question their relationship with the natural world after traumatic experiences with flooding, landslides and fallen trees. Folks in other parts of the world might have experienced other forms of natural disasters such as fires, earthquakes, monsoons or extreme drought. Below, I would like to offer some healthy coping mechanisms for anyone who wants to cultivate resilience and restore their relationship with nature, community and Self. I wholeheartedly believe repairing our relationship with the natural world is essential if we want to heal – and we must heal together. Because our health is ultimately dependent on the health of this planet. Three ways to cultivate resiliency through nature therapy:
Allow yourself this sacred time to simply BE, without checking your phone or worrying about your ‘To Do List.’ This is a form of self-care, which we must make time for so we can tap into that well of resiliency. Consider journaling about your experience or discussing with a friend. Join us live via Zoom on Nov. 9 for a remotely guided nature therapy retreat Join me for a REMOTELY GUIDED nature therapy retreat from 2-3:30 p.m. Eastern on Saturday, Nov. 9. The theme is "Finding Resilience," in support of those recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, wildfires, or a natural disaster. However, anyone looking for a practice to help reduce stress and cultivate a deeper connection with the natural world is welcome and will benefit from this experience. Together, we will quiet our weary minds and awaken our senses, finding peace and wellbeing in these wild times. I will lead the experience live via Zoom amidst the fall foliage of the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina. Join from your porch, backyard or favorite park, connecting to the land or natural elements wherever you are. We will end in community with a virtual tea ceremony, so bring your favorite beverage and a snack. This retreat is offered by donation and free to first responders or anyone facing financial hardship. All are welcome, regardless of ability to pay. Please consider donating the highest rate that you can afford. Your generosity supports the cost of the program, your guide, students, first responders, and participants facing financial hardship. Sliding scale pricing is as follows: Benefactor $100 This rate covers the cost of the program and supports your guide, first responders and participants facing financial hardship. Sustainer $50 This rate covers the cost of the program and supports your guide. Basic $20 This rate covers the cost of the program. Student $10 This rate is for students and those on a limited income. No Fee $0 This rate is for first responders and participants facing financial hardship. Use promo code BEMYGUEST24 to redeem this offer. To register, click the orange BOOK NOW link on the right, then click on Nov. 9. Questions? Email [email protected].
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Welcome! I'm Kelly Bruce, a certified nature and forest therapy guide. Read on for inspiration on improving your overall wellbeing, naturally!
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