Yesterday, I had the unique opportunity to bring a slice of nature indoors at a corporate wellness fair. As a Forest Therapy Guide, I was there to represent Forest Therapy – a practice that usually takes place in open, natural spaces – but on this occasion, I had to adapt it for an indoor environment. It was both exciting and challenging, requiring creativity, adaptability, and a good deal of trust in my own approach.
I felt immense sense of gratitude seeing how receptive people were to this immersive experience, even within the confines of a conference room.
This is the story of how I crafted that experience, the impact it had, and the lessons I learned along the way. If you’re curious about Forest Therapy, its benefits, or how nature’s gifts can reach people in any setting, then you’re in the right place.
The Planning Process: Piecing Together Inspiration
Preparing for this wellness fair took several weeks. I knew I wanted to bring the essence of Forest Therapy to an indoor space, so I began gathering ideas, experimenting with various elements, and envisioning how the experience might unfold. Bringing nature indoors (into a noisy space) felt like blending two worlds, and I wanted participants to feel a genuine connection to the natural world, even if only for a few minutes.
I drew inspiration from many places: insights from Facebook groups, stories shared by other guides, the clarity I find in nature and reflections on past sessions I’ve guided outdoors. Each of these sources shaped my approach, blending together to create a meaningful and immersive experience for participants.
I collected small natural items, like stones, pinecones, dried leaves, and bark, to create a tactile connection with the forest. I also recorded an invitation guiding participants to explore these items with their senses while adding nature sounds to the background for a touch of immersion.
In a traditional forest therapy session, we spend two or more hours in a slow, mindful walk through nature. But here, I would have only minutes to introduce people to this practice. Every detail counted, from the eye covers to block out the indoor setting, to the freshly brewed spruce tea that would be waiting for them afterward, to offer warmth and grounding.
Navigating Self-Doubt and the “Imposter Syndrome”
I’d be lying if I said I arrived at the fair without a few jitters. Driving over, my mind buzzed with questions: "Who am I to guide people through this? What if no one’s interested?" . Self-doubt, often known as “imposter syndrome,” crept in, and I worried that people might find the concept strange or uncomfortable, or worse – ignore it altogether.
As someone who mostly guides people in outdoor settings, adapting my practice to a formal corporate environment felt like stepping into new territory.
But I remembered the importance of trusting myself and the unique value Forest Therapy can bring to people’s lives. I’ve seen firsthand how nature has the power to heal, uplift, and inspire. This wasn’t about proving myself; it was about extending an invitation for others to experience something simple yet powerful. When I arrived, I set up my station and tried to focus on the experience I hoped to offer.
Crafting the Experience: From Guided Invitation to Spruce Tea
As the wellness fair opened, people began wandering over to my station, curious about what I had to offer. I started by explaining Forest Therapy, sharing a bit about how connecting with nature can relieve stress, boost mood, and invite us to slow down and reconnect with our senses. I could see their curiosity growing, and soon, people were eager to try it.
The experience itself was a guided nature connection invitation. I had arranged a basket filled with natural items – small “beings” like stones, pinecones, and bits of forest textures that participants could explore. The invitation was recorded, leading them to engage each sense: the feel of a smooth stone, the earthy scent of pine, and the subtle weight of a dried leaf in their hand. A recording played in the background with soothing nature sounds – rustling leaves, distant bird calls – giving an authentic feeling of being outdoors.
To create an even more immersive experience, I offered eye covers to help block out the distractions of the busy conference room.
For just under nine minutes, each participant sat with their “natural being” and sank into the experience. When they finished, they could write down a word or phrase on a community board about what they’d noticed or felt during those moments.
Then came the spruce tea – a way to ground the experience and share a taste of nature. The aroma filled the room, and as people sipped, they began sharing their thoughts with me. Many felt deeply relaxed; some said it reminded them of childhood or special places they loved, bringing a wave of nostalgia and comfort.
Observations and Reflections: Connection in Unexpected Places
What struck me most was how much this simple experience meant to people. I was humbled by the interest they showed and the vulnerability with which they shared their reflections. They were taking time from their day not just to “try something new” but to really pause and connect. I could see that each person left with something meaningful – a thought, a feeling, or a renewed sense of calm.
Witnessing their responses, I was reminded that the power of nature doesn’t depend on location; it’s about creating the right space and holding the invitation with intention. The impact wasn’t in the basket of items or the eye covers; it was in the opportunity to stop, breathe, and remember a slower, more connected way of being – even if only for a few minutes.
Personal Takeaways: Showing Up Authentically
Another surprising part of this experience was realizing the power of authenticity. Many of the attendees wore professional suits and business attire, while I was in my Halloween sweater, keeping it simple and true to myself. I wanted to represent nature and grounding, not perfection or polish. Being myself allowed me to connect genuinely with everyone who came by.
This experience reminded me of how important it is to show up as we are, even if we feel out of place. The more honest and comfortable we are in our own skin, the more others can connect with what we offer. I walked away with a newfound appreciation for authenticity, both in myself and in the people I interacted with.
Inviting Others to Experience Forest Therapy
Reflecting on the wellness fair, I feel more motivated than ever to continue offering Forest Therapy experiences in creative ways, tailored to different environments and audiences. Whether it’s a personalized private session, a team-building activity, or a wellness fair like this one, I’m committed to bringing the essence of nature connection to people wherever they are.
If you’re curious about exploring Forest Therapy, I’d love to connect and talk about how we can adapt this practice to your space, your team, or your event. Nature doesn’t have to be a distant forest; it can be felt in simple moments – through a stone, a leaf, or a cup of spruce tea. Together, let’s find ways to bring a bit of nature into your everyday surroundings.
And to those organizing wellness fairs or similar events, I’d be honored to join and share this experience with more people. Each gathering is a chance to spark small but meaningful moments that leave a lasting impact.
If this resonates with you, drop a comment below or reach out by email – I’d love to hear your thoughts or discuss how we can create a unique nature experience for your community. Let’s bring the healing power of nature a little closer to home.
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