A Wild Beginning: The Genesis of My Life-long 'Trek'

My Journey into Nature Therapy and Forest Bathing

My earliest memory of nature’s healing power goes back to when I was just five years old. We lived near a forested riverbank that felt wild and magical. The tension in my childhood home created a desire to escape. That day, I needed to get to the riverbank. My mom was eight months pregnant and tired. She was not up for a walk, and, of course, didn’t want me to go alone.

However, I was determined. I raced across the yard and down the street, her voice calling after me. When I reached the riverbank, the sunlight filtered through the trees and danced on the water. In that moment, I felt calm, relaxed, and safe.

That was my first real sense that the forest could help me. Nature could hold me in ways the world sometimes couldn’t.

“I was forest bathing. I just didn’t have the words for it yet.” Navigating a midlife crisis with nature

This is where I learned peace. At five years old, I didn’t have language for healing, but the forest knew exactly what I needed.

When I learned about Forest Bathing

The Therapeutic Effects of Nature

Decades later, I discovered that in Japan, immersion in nature is known as Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing. This concept emerged in the 1980s as a public health intervention. It aimed to combat the rising physical and mental health challenges of our increasingly urban, high-stress, and technology-driven society.

A growing body of scientific research demonstrates the incredible benefits of forest bathing. Studies show a significant reduction in levels of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. It can lower blood pressure and decrease heart rate among other health benefits. Participants often report enhanced mental clarity, improved mood, and a greater sense of calm and well-being after spending time in nature.

Now as an adult navigating the intensity of midlife—grief, burnout, childhood trauma, and uncertainty about career and identity—it is nature that helps me come back to myself. Through regular, intentional sessions, I felt my nervous system soften. My mind stopped racing. My breath deepened. Forest bathing provided space to listen, not just to the forest, but to myself.

“What science confirmed, I lived.” Navigating midlife with nature.

Forest bathing before I knew it had a name.

Developing my Nature Therapy Practice

Finding a Personal Connection to Nature

As I showed up with attention and care, I noticed nature responding. I wasn’t just passing through; I was part of something greater. This realization sparked my philosophy of Nature Therapy & Wellness.

While forest bathing mainly focuses on individual wellbeing, my approach expands on this foundation. It emphasizes not only what we receive from nature but also how we relate to it. Through my certification with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT), I learned to guide what's known as Relational Forest Therapy, a practice grounded in presence, reciprocity, and respect.

As my practice evolved, I developed my signature approach. It's rooted in scientific principles and personal experience. Trauma-informed and influenced by my journey as a mother, expat, educator, and midlife seeker, my service blends evidence-based frameworks with deep relational presence.

This practice aligns with our biological connection to nature. It supports the body in regulating, the mind in restoring, and our inner systems—personal or collective—in rebalancing. Whether for individuals or groups, I guide clients toward clarity, calm, and meaningful connection.

“I know the research. I've lived the healing. Now I share it with purpose.”

As a trained researcher, I was captivated by the science behind Shinrin Yoku. My lived experience, the healing, the slowing down, led me to create my own signature Nature Therapy approach, blending Forest Bathing with deep, personal presence.

How Can Nature Therapy Help?

Exploring My Role as Your Nature Therapy Guide

In my midlife, I have no higher purpose than being your guide. This calling came to me quietly at first, then all at once. What started as a personal refuge has grown into a commitment to hold space for others. I have witnessed what’s possible when people slow down, are seen, and engage in embodiment practices with nature.

The benefits are tangible. For some, it manifests as less tension in the body, with shoulders softening and sleep improving. Others may find that their minds are clearer, leading to lighter decision-making and open conversations. Many discover increased patience with their families, coworkers, or even themselves.

I’ve observed moms return to their families with a greater capacity to manage the mental load. Professionals have rediscovered focus and purpose in their daily work. Couples have learned to truly hear each other again. I’ve walked alongside expats searching for their footing in unfamiliar places and midlifers learning how to listen inward after years of only living outward.

Nature is abundant and so is the opportunity for transformation. I guide clients on forest trails, in peaceful city parks, local green spaces, beaches, and even indoors. We can collaborate throughout the seasons of the year and throughout life. For those unable to join in person, we can connect online in grounding and comfortable ways. You are welcome to participate alone, with a small group, or as part of a team. My services are designed to be flexible and supportive, no matter your circumstances.

“My services meet you where you are and provides something lasting to carry forward.”

Rashel 'TrekHer' Wilson, PhD: An ANFT-certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide with Wilderness First Aid training - holding space for healing and connection on every trail.

Let Nature be Your Therapist - I Will Open the Door

There’s no one right way to start this journey. All it takes is a willingness to take that first step. Some may feel ready to book a one-on-one walk. Others might want to talk things through before committing. Some invite a partner or friend, while others gather their team for something meaningful.

My process begins wherever you are. Whether you're feeling burnt out, curious, in transition, or simply seeking a deeper breath, there is space for you.

You’re invited to connect, to explore, and to begin. You don’t have to have everything figured out.

“Choose what feels right for now. I’ll guide you from there.”

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