Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT)

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Serena Vogel Claimed

Colorado Springs, CO, United States

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Guide Details

Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA

Spending time in nature has been a favorite and healing past time since I was a very young girl. Growing up deep in the mountains of Colorado, I had a great deal of time for climbing trees, playing in creeks and rivers, dancing in falling rain and snow, while growing and tending flower and vegetable gardens. These activities nourished and supported me throughout my growing up years. Looking back, I would say that I have been forest bathing most of my life.

I began an indoor meditation practice in 2010 and in 2018 I learned how to bring my practice outdoors for a more rich and diverse experience. This allowed me to make deeper connections to myself, others and the Natural world in ways that I could ever have imagined. On a 2019 trip to the Pacific Northwest, my husband and I spent some time in the Redwood forests of northern California where I had an incredibly profound experience with the giant redwood trees. Walking into that forest, I was so overcome with emotion that I could not speak. I felt the ancient energy and wisdom that permeated the forest in my bones. I was being welcomed to their space as if I belonged there...I was being welcomed home. From that point, I discovered that I was a part of Nature rather than a visitor. This was absolutely life changing for me.

Not long after that, I was introduced to ANFT when listening to a talk given by Amos Clifford, the company's founder. He described what forest therapy/forest bathing is, the science behind it and how to get trained in this practice either for yourself or to share with others. Instantly, I knew I was being called to offer this practice to others. By this time, I had been retired for two years from my career as a middle school counselor and restorative justice practitioner. I was ready to continue offering healing practices to others that were outside of traditional therapy.

I completed my six-month ANFT Certified Guide training in July 2022 and my immersion training in September 2023. I continue to learn and grow in this practice all the time. Each walk I guide offers me new opportunities for learning. I guide people of all ages and am currently guiding elders through the Colorado Springs Senior Center and Brookdale Senior Living Community. I also guide young people at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Flying Pig Farm in Manitou Springs, CO and younger children through Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado. I also offer private walks for people of all ages.

It is an honor to guide people in this practice as I witness them experiencing renewed connections to themselves, others, and the Natural world. It is truly life changing.

Certified Guide:
Yes
Training Received From:
Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT)*
Language(s):
English
Title / Role:
Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide
Certified Trail Consultant:
No

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