the story of Urban Forest Guiding

Lynn grew up in the mountains of the North Shore, where she formed a deep connection with the forests near her home. Nature served as her refuge and source of healing from an early age.

It’s no surprise that Lynn gravitated towards the healing profession of nursing and pursued further education in Psychology at UBC. Marriage, raising three children, and a continual desire to connect with the land blended seamlessly with managing a sheep farm on Pender Island. Her on-call duties included working as an ambulance attendant for the BC Ambulance Service and teaching prenatal classes at the local medical center.

Lynn seemed drawn to island life. She later moved to Bowen Island, commuting by ferry for 15 years to work at St. Paul’s, UBC, and BC Women’s Hospital. Her focus on breast cancer prevention and education, along with her role as Nurse Coordinator at the UBC Breast Clinic, deepened her studies of the mind-body connection, exploring how mental states influence health and healing. Her courses on Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) at Vancouver Community Centre included mindfulness therapies and holistic approaches to healing.

Lynn’s breast cancer diagnosis in 2023 and her subsequent recovery inspired her to share the importance of reconnecting with the wisdom, stillness, and healing energies of the forest in her journey to wellness.

UFG approach

Lynn completed her in-depth training and certification with the Global Institute of Forest Therapy (GIFT) in 2022. She takes great joy in educating and guiding others to develop an awareness and understanding of nature’s healing power. Urban Forest Guiding emerged from her profound need to share her deep connection and love for the forest. Through specific invitations, she encourages participants to fully engage with their present surroundings, using all their senses. Forest guiding is not about identifying new trees or plants; it’s about experiencing a deep connection and feeling a oneness with nature. By harmonizing mind and heart, participants can quiet their thoughts, enhancing receptivity to their inner guidance, which contributes to healing the body, mind, and soul.

Nature fosters hope, resilience, and connection, providing a supportive backdrop for individuals to reflect, rejuvenate, and rebuild their lives. The simplicity of natural surroundings offers solace, significantly contributing to the holistic healing process for those facing health challenges or seeking greater balance in everyday life.