We were blessed to be surrounded by beautiful souls, majestic trees, star-filled skies, and the soothing symphony of nature. Our group camped at Fourth Lake, nestled among a mix of conifers and deciduous trees. For five full days, we were completely immersed in the healing embrace of the forest.

If you Google the magic of the Adirondack trees, you’ll find descriptions of forest bathing here as peaceful, awe-inspiring, and utterly enchanting—and I can now say that is absolutely true.

The Science Behind the Magic
Forest bathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps reduce stress and promotes the body’s natural self-healing. Throughout the retreat, healing flowed freely—mind, body, and soul. Participants described the experience as calming, renewing, energizing, and deeply relaxing.

Moments That Moved Us
We began each morning with kayak meditations among the waterlilies and dragonflies, with towering evergreens framing the lake. During the heat of the day, we grounded ourselves at the water’s edge, feet submerged in the refreshing lake, soaking in the sunshine and the healing negative ions that danced around us.

Each of us was drawn to different trees during our “sit spots.” My favorite was nestled between a birch and a hemlock beside our campsite. I could feel the distinct energy of each tree.

Birch is known for its protective and calming properties. Its phytoncides can open the bronchial tubes, ease central nervous system disorders, and reduce stress and anxiety. It's the perfect tree to sit under and journal.
Hemlock, one of my all-time favorites, offers protection, purification, and strength. It is grounding, earthy, and deeply calming to the nervous system. (Just don’t confuse it with the poisonous hemlock plant!)

One of the most surprising and powerful moments happened while I was grounding in the center of four large white pines. I felt a gentle but undeniable pull backward—as if the tree behind me was calling me into alignment. Later, I learned that Native Americans would sit with their spine aligned to the trunks of white pines to absorb their energy. Pines are among the most prolific trees in releasing phytoncides—natural compounds that purify the air and support healing from respiratory illnesses like diphtheria and whooping cough. They symbolize strength, hope, renewal, and spiritual connection. I was overwhelmed with gratitude for the tree’s gift.

Nature’s Joy and Laughter
The retreat was filled not only with peace but also with joy. Each night we gathered around a glowing fire, soothed by the sounds of loons and owls calling across the lake. Deer, bald eagles, blue jays, cardinals, butterflies, dragonflies, frogs—even chipmunks—graced us with their presence.

Gratitude in Art
Throughout the week, we collected natural treasures from the forest floor—whatever called to us. On our final day, we created “Gratitude Art” by arranging our findings into a beautiful circle and leaving it where we found them, as a gift back to the forest. This nonverbal form of natural expression eases stress, encourages mindfulness, and fosters inner peace. It's ideal for both children and adults. Just remember: take nothing but pictures, and leave only what nature has already provided.

Lasting Effects
Scientific studies show that just two hours of forest bathing can provide psychological and physiological benefits lasting anywhere from 7 to 30 days. Two weeks after co-leading this retreat for Elemental Recovery, I can say with confidence—personally and professionally—that I feel physically amazing, spiritually connected, and mentally at peace. My cortisol levels are down, anxiety is nonexistent, and I feel truly aligned with myself and with God.

Upcoming Sylvotherapy Session – St. Marys, Georgia

We’re excited to announce our next gathering:

Date: November 26, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: St. Marys, GA (near Crooked River — exact meeting spot will be shared upon registration)
Cost: Free!
Space is Limited: Only 20 spots are available—first come, first served!

This immersive session will include guided sylvotherapy practices designed to:

Reset the nervous system
Reconnect with your spirit
Reclaim your body
Awaken all five senses
Deepen your emotional and energetic bond with nature
Engage in art therapy, movement, and mindful forest walks
Learn how trees like oak, pine, birch, and cypress transmit energy and promote healing

Expect a journey of emotional restoration, spiritual insight, and grounded peace—led by experienced facilitators who honor both scientific and traditional wisdom.

Come prepared to unplug, engage deeply with the natural world, and receive the forest’s gifts.

To reserve your spot or receive future updates, join our email list. Let the forest call you home.

Elemental Recovery’s First Annual Sylvotherapy/Forest Bathing Retreat in the Adirondacks Was a Hit!

Full Circle.