About your guide
Lisa Wilson is an SYA (Shinrin Yoku Association) certified forest therapy guide. She has also completed the University of Derby UK nature connectedness program.
When I tried forest bathing for the first time, I knew I had found my Ikigai: joyful purpose. I soon traveled to Japan, the birthplace of Shinrin Yoku, to study and train as a guide in Nara prefecture. Now I live near Asheville NC where I lead group and private sessions. I continue to be amazed by the beautiful insights and deep peace my clients find in nature.
Nature provides the perfect conditions to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Its gentle guidance allows for insights to happen with little effort on our part. It gives space to get out of our own way and allows our brain and body to relax and play without modern noise or devices. This important space allows our natural intuition to arise and also gives us much needed time to step away from our busy thoughts and lives.
Experiencing this space allows us to carry these insights and calm back into our daily lives. Benefits last up to a few weeks but with regular practice, I've found the benefits to be lasting.
Why walk with a guide?
Just like any practice, forest bathing can be more meaningful when shared with a skilled guide. As an SYA certified guide, I create a safe and welcoming space to connect with nature.
A session includes: a guided meditation that brings you more fully into the present. Personal invitations to connect with nature through your sense of taste, touch, sound, smell and sight. Space and stillness to relax and notice the natural world through a new lens allowing the wisdom and joy of nature to meet you where you are. A closing tea ceremony to relax, reflect, and savor the flavors of the area.
Health Benefits
Shinrin Yoku means bathing in the atmosphere of the forest. Its a gentle experience that is about slowing down, being present and discovering a deeper connection to nature. Its healing effects have come under significant study in recent decades.
Spending quiet, intentional time in nature has been shown to
reduce levels of cortisol in the bloodstream
improve mood, lower anxiety and depression
strengthen immunity and increase NK cancer fighting cells
reduce blood pressure and improve heart rate variability
enhance sleep function and increase energy
increase joy, feelings of peace and calm
enhance feelings of wellbeing and connection
Many of these benefits can last up to a week, some up to 30 days after one 2-hour session.
The environment benefits also. When we foster a deeper relationship with nature, our desire to preserve and protect it increases, leading to a beautiful reciprocal relationship.
"The dream of my life is to lie down by the slow river and stare at the light in the trees to learn something, to be nothing a little while but the rich lens of attention."
- Mary Oliver
Gallery
Explore the beauty of forest bathing in one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world.
"I don't ask for the sights in front of me to change, only the depth of my seeing..." - Mary Oliver
© 2026. All rights reserved.
earthforapillow@gmail.com
