Connect to Wilderness

06/04/2026

05/22/2026

These are some great places for forest bathing around the country. In Maine a place I lead walks is on the list! That said, there are other many wonderful places in Maine and every state to be outside; in the present, just being. Beautiful natural settings are inspirational and at the same time; forest bathing can be done in urban parks, along the edge of the ocean, in back yards and anywhere where people find comfort in being outside, in the present, connecting with the more than human world.

Explore 50 stunning U.S. locations for forest bathing. Reconnect with nature's healing power in scenic parks, mountains, and peaceful woodlands.

04/26/2026

Good advice in the New York Time article based on my own research and direct experience. I take ticks seriously; I have contracted Lyme disease, had it identified in the acute state; taken antibiotics and that has taken care of it. I go in the woods all the time. I also encounter ticks. I accept the risk, but also take steps to reduce it. That is a personal decision and I encourage everyone to do their own research and then decide what your risk tolerance is for you and your family.

Here are some simple tricks for preventing tick bites and techniques for removing them if they do bite.

04/18/2026

Navia, our senior dog enjoying the Preumpscot.

04/12/2026

I am adding some new activities this year including an art walk. It's a forest therapy guided walk centered on art: seeing, creating, experiencing. You can find more information about it at: https://www.connecttowilderness.com/art-as-a-focus-for-a-forest-therapy-walk

01/24/2026

It was -1 degrees Fahrenheit when I got up this morning and I went for a run in the snow along the Presumpscot River; bundled up and enjoying the beauty and the solitude. It is possible to have a great time outside in the cold; dressing warmly and in layers is essential and time outside in nature is always uplifting for me. I know this without reading all the studies; but also enjoy knowing that what my heart already knows is supported by science.

Winter’s shorter daylight hours can negatively affect mental health, with many experiencing fatigue, mood changes, and in some cases, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a more severe depressive condition. Reduced sunlight impacts serotonin levels and disrupts circadian rhythms, but spending time o...