Damselfly Forest Therapy

05/28/2026

Sometimes the most restorative thing we can do is step away from the noise and follow the quieter path. 🌿

This trail led to wildflowers, birdsong, a handmade forest fort, and a reminder that the forest doesn’t ask us to perform — only to notice.

What might you discover if you slowed down long enough to wander? ✨

05/27/2026

I'm excited to be partnering with Assisi Heights Spirituality Center to bring this mindful experience in nature to families in Rochester. I invite you to join us on June 13 to learn how nature can help calm nervous systems of all ages.

🌿✨ Gentle Forest Bathing for Families
Slow down. Explore. Wonder—together.

📅 Saturday, June 13 | 10:00–11:00am
🌧 Rain Date: Saturday, July 11
💲 $25 (FREE for kids under 12)
📍 In-Person
👩‍🏫 Presenter: Damselfly Forest Therapy

Step into nature for a relaxed, playful forest therapy experience designed for caregivers and children of all ages. This isn’t a hike and it’s not a lesson—it’s an invitation to slow down, notice, and connect. 🌳💚

Through gentle, sensory-based activities inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), families will explore together at a kid-friendly pace. Wiggles, curiosity, quiet moments, and laughter are all welcome! 🐦🍃

Research shows time in nature can help reduce stress, boost mood, and support emotional well-being—for both kids and adults. Come experience it together.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

👉 Learn more & register:
https://rochesterfranciscan.org/events/gentle-forest-bathing-for-families/

🌼

05/21/2026

I did a pre-walk site visit last night at Oxbow Park and the frogs in the pond by the nature center were singing their little hearts out. I bow to the talents of my sisters and brothers from other-than-human mothers. 🐸

05/21/2026

If you haven't yet tried forest therapy--also known as shinrin-yoku or "forest bathing"--here's your chance to do it for free at Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail's 2nd Annual Trail Days in Chatfield May 30.

Sign up on site at the Chatfield Center for the Arts to join me for a slow, gentle walk along the creek in Groen Park, where we'll use our senses to connect with nature and calm our nervous systems. 🌳🌿🌾

🧘‍♂️Forest bathing? Yes, please!

Join Nicole of Damselfly Forest Therapy at Trail Days this year for a calm and peaceful guided experience in nature.

Nicole will guide folks through a forest therapy walk, starting at City Park at 11:15 am on Saturday, May 30.

This walk is free and open to the public but spots are limited. Arrive early to secure your spot!

No need to bring anything with other than comfortable walking shoes. We hope you enjoy the walk!

05/18/2026

If you're looking for a slower, gentler pace, I'd love to welcome you to a guided forest bathing experience with Damselfly Forest Therapy.

Upcoming events in Rochester:

June 13: Gentle Forest Bathing for Families
June 18: Communing with the Living World

Both events are hosted through Assisi Heights Spirituality Center.

Link in bio for details and registration.

05/15/2026

The amphitheater at Chester Woods Park - Olmsted County, Eyota, MN is a beautiful outdoor venue. (It's also a great spot to host tea at sunset at the end of a forest therapy walk.) If you aren't familiar with Chester Woods Park or the amphitheater, add a visit to your summer bucket list! 🌳

Chester Woods Park and the Friends of Chester Woods would like to present our 2026 Amphitheater Event schedule!

5/23/26 Chester Proctor 6:00 pm
6/6/26 National Eagle Center 2:30 pm
6/6/26 Night Train Layne and Friends 6:00 pm
6/20/26 The Med City Misfits 6:00 pm
6/27/26 Room For Gray 6:00 pm
7/25/26 The Lonely Knees 6:0 pm
8/15/26 The Midnight Hounds 6:00 pm
8/29/26 Room For Gray 6:00 pm
9/19/26 The Midnight Hounds 6:00 pm

05/15/2026

Poison hemlock is extremely dangerous and can be fatal to both animals and humans if ingested. Never touch or taste any plant unless you're absolutely sure that it's safe. Learn more at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/invasives/terrestrialplants/poisonhemlock.html

If you’re planning to spend time exploring the trails or local parks this weekend, there is a serious safety update you should see before you head out.

A dangerous plant has been spotted across Minnesota that contains a toxin is dangerous to humans and pets. It "impacts the nervous system, causing trembling, salivation, lack of coordination, dilated pupils, weak pulse, respiratory paralysis, coma and death."

And, every part of the plant - roots, stems, leaves, and seeds - is extremely dangerous.

Be careful and let your friends know!

05/12/2026

Did you know that the practice of forest therapy may help relieve the symptoms of chronic pain?

This article from EL PAÍS USA explains how numerous studies and experts link exposure to natural environments with a decrease in pain perception:

Numerous studies and experts link exposure to natural environments with a decrease in pain perception: ‘It modulates the autonomic nervous system, improves physical health, strengthens the immune system, and reduces cortisol levels’