Meet your guide…

Debra Wilbur
Following early careers in fashion and the visual arts, I worked as an art director in the film and television industry for nearly 20 years—16 of those years on a worldwide number one television drama. I was steeped in a work life that absorbed all of my energies (mind, body, soul) 24/7. When you’re whole existance is defined and captured by your work life you are, of course, aware of its limited stainability, but it's so difficult to imagine let alone craft your way out of it. So, the Universe stepped in for me.
An on-set accident prevented me from walking for several months. I used this “time off” to move my mother cross-country to attend to her during her decline and death resulting from Alzheimer’s. Almost simultaneously, I received a cancer diagnosis requiring surgery, radiation and chemical treatment. Sprinkle in a few more falls and broken bones as well as the development of a chronic pain condition and you have an intense three-year physical, mental and spirtitual transition story.
All this revived my interest in and exploration of stress relief and healing practices. I had already been studying TM (Transcendental Meditation), which I credit chiefly for my relatively peaceful navigation of these experiences. But I have also since achieved milestones and received accreditation in other arenas as well: I am a Reiki Master, advanced Transcendental Meditation practitioner, death doula, third certificate ikebana apprentice, sound healer, horticulturist/herbalist and a mindfulness meditation facilitator.
I have traveled the Nakasendo Trail in Japan and experienced firsthand where Shinrin-yoku (known here in North America as forest bathing) first came into practice. I am a certified Association of Nature and Forest Therapy guide and I combine that practice with my plant and foraging knowledge, my regard for astrology, animism, ritual and ceremony to create a singular nature-based immersion--aimed at quieting the mind and body, easing stress, freeing the imagination, and creating community among strangers.

The Huntington: Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens
Dec 02, 2023 | 08:30 A.M. - 10:30 A.M.
1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, CA 91108, USA
Join Certified Forest Therapy Guide Debra Wilbur for a two-day forest bathing class and discover pathways to restore emotional and physical well-being. Wilbur leads a guided nature immersion experience while exploring the beauty and tranquility of The Huntington. Suitable for all levels, no previous experience necessary. Registration includes two consecutive Saturdays. All walks include a day/place specific crystal stone and organic herbal tisane.
The Huntington: Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens
Dec 09, 2023 | 08:30 A.M. - 10:30 A.M.
1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, CA 91108, USA
Join Certified Forest Therapy Guide Debra Wilbur for a two-day forest bathing class and discover pathways to restore emotional and physical well-being. Wilbur leads a guided nature immersion experience while exploring the beauty and tranquility of The Huntington. Suitable for all levels, no previous experience necessary. Registration includes two consecutive Saturdays. All walks include a day/place specific crystal stone and organic herbal tisane.
Secret Location Full Moon Walk!
Dec 26, 2023 | 04:00 P.M. - 06:30 P.M.
Los Angeles, CA, USA
Forest Bathing under a FULL MOON gives us an unparalleled opportunity to navigate with senses less dominate than our eyesight. We attune to and then let ourselves be guided by our more subtle senses: scent, sound, touch and intuition. The time of the full moon offers us opportunity to see and to celebrate the myriad ways that the moon, the stars and the night sky can guide and influence us. The evening will incorporate an ever-varying combination of sound making and healing, forest bathing and nature immersion, reiki, and astrology. This very special walk will take place in a private location in the Los Angeles area. Exact location and details will be sent one month in advance of the event.