Nature Relations
Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku) and other nature based adventures
Tired, stressed, anxious, depressed, frazzled, exhausted, overwhelmed, drained, burned out, empty, incomplete…do any of these words resonate with you?
Are you seeking connection, seeking balance, seeking quiet, seeking peace?
Reconnect with Nature
Life is busy and people are stressed out! We live in a hectic world and all our technology seems to be making life more chaotic than less. We are losing connection with each other, with nature and ourselves. Our ancestors used to live and work in harmony with the land. Now most of us work indoors and have lost that relationship. We are suffering from that loss. Things like global warming, deforestation and water pollution all point to the fact that our world is suffering too. At Nature Relations, we believe that reconnecting with nature is the place to start the healing and that as we reconnect with nature, we will reconnect with ourselves and each other.
The forest welcomes you
There is healing in the trees!
What is Forest Bathing and why should I do it?
The term forest bathing comes out of research finding that trees give off chemicals called phytoncides that boost our immune system. As you walk through the woods you are literally bathing in the immune-boosting properties of the forest. There are lots of other studies and health benefits to forest bathing, such as a reduction in stress hormones in the body, increased memory, concentration, and creativity. The list goes on as does the research, but what really is a forest bath or forest walk? Unlike hiking or many other outdoor activities, forest walks are short, slow and intentional. In fact, you spend much of your time sitting or standing and not walking. It’s more about “being here” than “getting there”. You start with a guided meditation taking in the sensory offerings of the forest, then you do a deliberately slow, short walk noticing what is in motion in the forest, then you will be given a series of invitations that will engage your senses, facilitating a deeper connection with nature and with your fellow participants. Watch the video for a brief introduction.
Can Children benefit from Forest Bathing?
Absolutely children can benefit from Forest Bathing. The younger we are the more we do this naturally. Remember lying on your back and watching clouds go by? Or picking a dandelion and blowing it and watching the seeds fly away? However, children under age 11 or 12 may need some redirection to participate in the group experience. Contact us if you have a younger child and want to customize an experience.
Connection
As you begin to slow down your pace you will start noticing the beings of the forest as the busyness of your mind settles. This is a time for you to just relax in all that the forest has to offer. There will be opportunities to share what you are noticing with your fellow participants and to truly be seen and heard for who you are. Deb is not a therapist, nor will she try to become one. The forest is the “therapist”, Deb is a fellow participant who simply helps facilitate your interaction with the forest by offering the invitations allowing you to deepen your connection to the forest.
About the owner
Nature Relations, LLC is owned and operated by Deb Weimerskirch Estrem. Deb’s purpose is to help you create a time and a space where you can reconnect with nature. Deb is a healer by nature and by training. She is a dedicated pediatric doctor who has practiced in clinic, hospital, and emergency department settings. Deb has always enjoyed being out in nature, but in 2022, while on a resiliency retreat for healthcare providers, she was introduced to forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku) and came to understand the actual science behind the healing powers of the forest. (See below for more info.) Her passion for this healing practice grew quickly and she became certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) in 2023 as a Forest and Nature Therapy Guide. She is excited for the opportunity to introduce others to the healing nature of the forests.
About our land
Our land in Dennison, MN (just south of Cannon Falls, MN) is located on the edge of the driftless zone. As a result, we have a beautiful landscape of 3 valleys converging into a serene meadow. When we have had enough rainfall, we have a gentle stream running through the property. Deb’s husband Dan grew up on this land and has tended to it since he was a child. He says he used to go into the woods anytime he was in trouble “which was a lot!” (His words) This land has brought him (and our whole family) healing and he tends it with the loving care it has shown him. There are many trails that he and our nephew maintain. More recently, after Deb became certified as a forest therapy guide, Dan has started creating gathering places for people to meet and sit and reflect during their walks.
We also have land in Inver Grove Heights where we host smaller, shorter events and the evening walks in winter/early spring months.
About our logo
The logo depicts a time when Deb and Dan were “untamed” by the world. We are all born with a need for connection and belonging and can easily find it in nature. As we grow we become “tamed” by the world as we learn to sit inside at desks or behind computers.
One of Deb’s first and favorite nature memories is of picking red clover for her great grandmother. What is a favorite nature memory of yours? Come play in the woods and remember your story.
sign up for a walk today
We believe Forest Therapy should be available to all. Contact Deb if you or a friend need a scholarship in order to participate.
You may also donate to our scholarship fund on our shop/donate page.
We have plenty of benches and sit pads for those who choose to not sit on the ground.
If you have any mobility issues, we have ways to accommodate those as well, please feel free to contact me.
Testimonials
Deb is a natural. I didn't know what to expect from my Forest Bathing experience going in. But her comfort level and steadiness of delivery helped me to gain much needed peace and tranquility. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone. Nature is the perfect complement to the process. Deb has a natural way of allowing nature to be the true star of the show and for us to be immersed in the process. Just go. If you're unsure, just go. You won't regret it.
- Ryan R.
Life changing! Try it for yourself.
- Molly W.
This was a really nice event. I am so glad that I attended it. Nicely done!
- Stuart W.
Deb led a wonderful mindfulness experience in the woods that brought me to a calmer, lighter, more playful place.
Deb introduced me to Forest Bathing on a short walk at a local park last summer. Then I was able to join one of her groups in the fall. It was truly a special experience. I love how she describes Forest Bathing as more about “being here” than “getting there”. I loved the relaxed pace as we wandered through the woods. I loved Deb’s soothing voice as she guided us through the walk. I loved the special way I felt connected to nature. Even now, several months later, I can reflect on that experience and still enjoy benefits from my time in the forest.
- Sue M.
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