"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks."

My experience as a guide started in 1986 when I was a horseback trail guide in the Rocky Mountains and then in Australia. I felt so lucky to be able to work with animals and be in nature on a daily basis. My experiences during that time left an indelible mark on me. It's hard to put into words, but I remember riding through the forest one morning and thinking about how many people were sitting at their desks in office buildings in the City. I felt so grateful to be immersed in nature - especially as it was part of my job.

I went on to be a walking tour guide in Italy with Butterfield and Robinson, and the effect that walking through the natural world had on my clients during our walks - no matter where they came from - was life altering for some.  I became even more interested in the relationship between people and nature, and couldn't deny how much better I felt being in nature, as opposed to being in a City.

Moving back to Vancouver, I needed to figure out how to embrace nature in my daily work. Almost immediately after I held this inquiry in my mind, I discovered Nature and Forest Therapy. Two months later, I was enrolled in the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy's training program to become certified as a Guide.  

Scientific studies have demonstrated a wide array of health benefits from Forest Bathing, especially in the cardiovascular and immune systems, and, for stabilizing and improving mood and cognition. Nature and Forest Therapy guides build on those benefits and look beyond, to what happens when people remember that we are a part of nature, not separate from it, and are related to all other beings in fundamental ways. 

Through in-person and virtual remote experiences I offer a series of 'invitations', that help awaken your senses to deepen your connection with yourself, with nature, and with others. This intentional practice is not just about healing people; it includes healing for the forest, river, or desert - whatever environment you're in.   

I look forward to guiding you!  

Maria 

Maria Verdicchio 

Certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide 

End of Life Designer &  Educator