My Journey Back to Me

Nothing like another trip around the sun to fill my heart with gratitude. As I reflect on the past year, I’m in awe of the beauty I’ve witnessed and the connections made. I want to thank every single one of you for following my natural wanders. For those just tuning in, I’d like to take a moment to welcome you and introduce myself.

First of all, thank you for being here. And by here, I mean on this planet. For all that you’ve been through in your lifetime, all the ups and downs, the journey of your family and ancestors, it ALL has led you to this moment. You have a unique gift to share with the world. I hope you find quiet and stillness so you can hear the wisdom of your heart. It will lead you in the right direction. Of that I’m certain.

If you’re reading this, you’re probably a nature lover, mental health advocate, or you desire a deeper connection with community, yourself, and the more than human world. You’ve come to the right place.

I began practicing and guiding nature therapy and forest bathing experiences in 2018. In silence and stillness, I was able to hear my heart - the divine wisdom within. I realized that I wasn’t sharing my gifts, living in my truth, in authenticity. I was doing what I thought I was supposed to do: living the so-called "American Dream." But it wasn't MY dream.

I couldn’t understand why I had this underlying depression. I had everything I wanted, but I was busier than a bee. My mind never stopped. I was always on to the next project, plotting my next move. I never stopped to breathe deeply and listen to the rhythms of nature, or my inner voice - until I discovered nature therapy and forest bathing. It gently invited me back to my body, my heart and soul. I immersed myself in nature and washed away years of conditioning. People pleasing. Perfectionism. I ended my marriage and a successful career in marketing and communications, and moved across the country. It was a painful and difficult transition, but as soon as I began to follow my heart, it was as if the Universe rolled out the red carpet. Everything began to align.

Nature is my safe place. My muse and mentor. She has guided and soothed me through the most challenging moments of my life. So of course, I want to share this practice with the world. I am honored to bear witness to countless others who have had transformative experiences while being held in the arms of Mother Nature.

We are all connected. You. Me. The birds and the trees. It’s time to restore and deepen that relationship. Especially our connection with Self. I look forward to connecting with all of you here and hopefully in the forest. Sharing what has sparked joy and clarity, and guided me gently back towards equanimity. Back to me.

With love and gratitude,
Kelly Bruce

About the Author
Kelly Bruce is a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide/Certification Consultant and the founder of Natural Wanders. She leads forest bathing, nature therapy retreats, and mindful hikes in the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina. Her community forest bathing retreats are featured at the North Carolina Arboretum, presented through Adult & Continuing Education Programs in collaboration with Asheville Wellness Tours. You can also join her monthly experiences hosted by Conserving Carolina. Each month in this blog, she’ll provide inspiration to help you wander into wellness, naturally. In the meantime, follow along on Instagram and Facebook.