I was raised under the majestic redwoods, in Mill Valley California; the forest is my life-long friend. Significant teachers in my environmental education include the inimitable Mrs. Terwilliger who taught thousands of Marin County children, and beyond, the joys of nature exploration. Also my parents and grandparents. And the bays and beaches, creeks and mountains, oaks and grasses, bees and bluejays, jasmine, marigolds, mushrooms and so much more.

In search of direction after a civil service career in environmental stewardship, I became an ANFT certified forest therapy guide (the forest is the therapist, the guide opens the doors) and an Instructor in Shinrin-Yoku (forest medicine) by the INFOM. Guiding forest therapy sessions in Humboldt County CA, allowed me to share the gifts of nature connection—gifts that have given me so much personally, teaching me self-care, gratitude and reciprocity.

Serendipitously, essential oils found me when I met Carol Addison-Goyne of Nomad Botanicals in Petaluma CA. Carol took me on a sensory journey that activated my inner compass, introducing me to plant-scent voices that were immediately and profoundly impactful. Voices that communicate deeply meaningful ways of being in the world. I am forever blessed to be able to share this easily accessible forest and nature medicine with those seeking connection.

Holding gratitude, I open the door…