When I started preparing nature therapy sessions in the white continent, Antarctica, I knew that guiding in such extreme conditions required a blend of thoughtful preparation, creativity, and adaptability. The cold, wind, mountains and stark beauty of the white continent create a unique environment for deep connection, but they also present challenges that require careful consideration.
Here, I’ll share some practical tips for leading nature therapy sessions in cold environments, along with insights into how these experiences profoundly benefit participants.
Preparing for the Elements
One of the most critical aspects of conducting a slow nature connection program in cold weather is preparation. Antarctica’s climate is unforgiving, and ensuring participant and guide safety is paramount. If you work in any cold environment, start by advising everyone on proper clothing. Layers are essential, warm gloves, hats, and neck gaiters are a must, as are sturdy boots with good insulation and hand and foot warmers can be practical for comfort.
I always worked with a well-trained mountain guide alongside me and carried extra equipment, with a well-stocked emergency kit. Timing is another critical factor; sessions were kept short, ideally between 30 and 45 minutes, to minimize prolonged exposure to the cold. It’s also essential to monitor weather conditions closely and remain flexible in any cold area — sessions may need to be rescheduled or adapted.
Selecting a location is equally important to avoid hazards of the terrain. Encouraging participants to move mindfully and maintain awareness of their footing is essential. Intentional steps also serve as grounding practice.
Engaging the Senses in the Cold
One of the most beautiful aspects of conducting nature therapy or nature connection sessions on ice is how the environment heightens sensory awareness. In Antarctica, participants are enveloped by a world of white and blue, where the only sound is the never-ending wind, and the air feels almost otherworldly. This sensory immersion helps participants step out of their daily stress and into a space of being.
I mostly started the programs with simple practices like standing still and feeling the wind on their skin or listening to the faint sounds of shifting ice. Breathing exercises and slow movements are particularly powerful in the cold; helping participants feel more present in their bodies.
Even the act of walking on ice becomes an opportunity for connection. I guided participants to focus on each step, noticing the crunch of snow beneath their boots and the subtle shifts in balance. These small, deliberate actions ground them in the moment and foster a deep connection to the environment.
The Profound Benefits for Participants
The harshness of the Antarctic environment amplifies the benefits of nature therapy. Participants often came
feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or immensely disconnected, but the harsh simplicity of the landscape has a way of stripping away distractions and bringing clarity.
The extreme environment encourages participants to engage fully with their surroundings, leaving no room for passive engagement. This level of presence through and with the body allows for profound introspection.
Safety and Adaptability
Safety is a cornerstone of any session in extreme cold. In addition to proper clothing and gear, I ensured that participants stayed hydrated and nourished. Warm drinks like tea can provide comfort and keep energy levels up during the entire program.
Sessions were always designed with flexibility in mind. If the weather turned or participants showed signs of discomfort, I was prepared to adjust the plan or cut the session short. Communication is vital; checking in regularly with participants about how they’re feeling ensures that everyone stays safe and taken care of.
A detailed briefing before the programs played also essential role.
A Unique Opportunity for Transformation
Leading nature therapy in Antarctica has shown me that even the harshest environments can foster profound growth and connection. The cold, the quiet, and the immense beauty of the ice and rocks create a space where participants can reconnect with themselves and the world around them in ways they never imagined.
The wind, snow, and ice become allies; teaching life lessons never learned before. As a guide, witnessing these transformations is an incredible privilege and a reminder of the power of nature to heal and inspire.
By approaching any session in extreme conditions with care, preparation, and a deep respect for the environment, we can help participants to thrive and relax in even the most challenging climates. It’s an experience that stays with them long after they leave the ice, offering lessons in presence, connection, and the incredible strength of the human spirit and Mother Nature.
Author: Beàta Szablics ANFT certified forest and nature therapy guide and tourism professional, first to lead nature therapy relaxation sessions in Antarctica. Well-being guide at Your Nature Anew. All pictures in this article belong to Beàta Szablics.