Meet your guide…

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.