guided forest bathing & Econidra

embodied nature connection practices
rest | restore | reconnect

A rooted life is one of reciprocity. - Lyanda Lynn Haupt

What is Forest Bathing?

  • Forest Therapy

    Forest Therapy is a research-based approach for supporting health and wellness through immersion in forests and other environments to promote the well-being of people and natural landscapes.

    Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to “forest bathing,” it is a practice of spending time in forested areas for the purpose of enhancing health, wellness, and happiness.

  • Health Benefits

    Boosts Immune System

    Increases Energy

    Lowers Blood Pressure

    Reduces Inflammation

    Improves Sleep

    Healthy Digestion

  • Well-Being

    These days, people are more stressed, anxious, and depressed and have more chronic health conditions. Forest Bathing gives our mental resources a break and provides a pathway for people to remember how to immerse themselves in nature to rest from all that consumes them in their daily lives.

  • Connection

    Jacques Cousteau once said, “People protect what they love.” A heartfelt, embodied relationship with nature naturally leads to a love of nature and recognition that we are nature. Forest bathing provides participants the opportunity to remember the nature of relationship and the way we are all connected.

LEARN MORE

MEET YOUR GUIDE

Hi! My name is Mindy Lockhart (they/them) and I’m a Nature and Forest Therapy Guide certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy as well as a certified EcoNIDRA facilitator. I currently reside in Bend, Oregon (traditional lands of the Wasco, Warm Springs, Paiute peoples) and feel privileged to offer guided sessions in the incredibly beautiful, diverse landscape of Central Oregon.

Conscious and contemplative time in nature has played a critical role in my own healing journey to help me cope with depression and anxiety and being highly sensitive in an insensitive world. I grew up in the country but lived in big cities for most of my adult life, where I dissociated from myself and the natural world. I was in a constant state of fight/flight/freeze. Returning to nature helped me reconnect to my body and open my heart in a way I never thought possible. I became a guide because these practices are so meaningful to me. I believe that sharing them with others will bring about the change we need to heal this world. Whether you are seeking healing, simple moments of peace away from the busyness of daily life, or guidance on building a deeper connection with nature, I would be honored to hold that space for you.

person next to a tree in a forest with a creek

Testimonials

  • “I was looking for a forest bathing experience in Bend after learning about forest therapy at a wellness retreat a couple months prior to our walk with Mindy. I’m very thankful to have found Mindy who guided and immersed 5 of us friends into a state of relaxation while opening our minds to a new understanding of being one with nature and our natural surroundings. I’ve since not only incorporated this practice into my own walks but also encouraged others to try it.” - Sue

  • Flowing water in winter

    “The forest therapy with Mindy was exactly what I needed. It was a time to intentionally be present with nature, which is always therapeutic for me. The key things that Mindy provided that allowed this experience to be even more special, were the invitations. Instead of simply being in nature, I was able to connect with it in fun and thoughtful ways that brought about a deeper feeling of peace, reflection, and processing of my daily life.” - Kim

  • “As someone who spends an exorbitant amount of time in the forest, both for work and play, I thought I had all my bases covered. Yet, Mindy enlightened me on what it really means to be present in nature, rather than simply going to nature. Through their calming guidance, I was able to tune out the negative, anxiety-inducing buzz in my brain and allow my senses to take over, to open my heart to gratitude for having the privilege and accessibility to nature. I had started to take for granted that privilege, but Mindy has led me back to center and shown me how to wholly embrace the healing power of nature.” - Jen

  • waterfall cascading over rocks in a forest

    “This nature/forest bathing experience is very meditative and helps to be present and completely in the moment. I was hesitant at first when thinking about sharing after each invitation but then looked forward to finding things throughout each invitation that I could bring back to the circle. Highly recommend!” - John

  • Lake reflection at sunset with mountain and trees

    “It’s a wonderful way to experience nature and it’s healing benefits in a guided way.” - A.