Natures Healing

Your Guide

Bobby Hurley is a certified Forest Therapy Guide trained by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Program or ANFT.
Through his own personal struggles with addiction, he found Nature to not only strengthen his relationship with his Higher Power but also with his loved ones.
He grew up on the outskirts of Baltimore City and moved to Sunny South Florida when he was in his early twenties. He immediately fell in love with the Ocean and all its power and beauty. He was also amazed by how the tall Palm Trees swayed in the strong tropical winds but never wavered. He met his wife in 1999. They had two children, one girl and one boy, and raised them in South Florida until both kids left for college.
Then, he and his wife moved to the Beautiful Mountains of Western NC. Seeking a fresh start as empty nesters, Bobby and his wife discovered that the Appalachian Mountains were right where they needed to be. It was on daily hikes that he strengthened his love for nature and his relationship with his wife, now for 24 years, and where true healing began from many years of addiction.
Nature is a way of life for Bobby, so he immersed himself into the guide program at ANFT to help spread his love and connection of nature to everyone he comes into contact with, and he uses its practices and techniques to help heal and recover in his own life, one day at a time.

Schedule a Forest Therapy Experience

Testimonies…

“Came home renewed and refreshed from our Nature Therapy Retreat! Would definitely recommend and can’t wait to do again!” – Jill & Burt Austin, TX

“We are booked for fall, can’t wait to be immersed in the colors of the trees.” – Kaci Pensacola, FL

“I signed up for the opportunity to get away and disconnect. I got back even more than I had imagined. – Terry Atlanta, GA

What is Forest Therapy?

Meet our team

Our Nature Therapy Retreat has several options available to meet your physical, mental health, and adventure needs.

Bobby Hurley

Certified ANFT Guide

Dr. Lina Valery

FL, Licensed Mental Health Counselor

FAQs

How can forest therapy help me?

Forest therapy, also known as forest bathing or Shinrin-yoku, can significantly enhance your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Immersing yourself in a forest environment allows you to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and connect with nature’s calming rhythms. The serene atmosphere and natural beauty of forests can reduce stress hormones like cortisol, lower blood pressure, and improve cardiovascular health. Mentally, spending time in forests can boost your mood, enhance focus, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Emotionally, the sensory experience of forest therapy fosters mindfulness and a sense of inner peace, promoting overall psychological resilience and well-being. By engaging all your senses—seeing the lush greenery, hearing the rustling leaves, smelling the earth and flora, and feeling the cool breeze—you can achieve a profound sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.

What is the cost of the retreat?

Costs will vary on duration of stay, how many in your party, and activities you chose to add to your stay. Call or contact us with your details and we will gladly let you know.

Do I have to go on a retreat or visit your location to get the benefits of forest therapy?

No, we also offer Virtual forest therapy which can offer significant mental and physical health benefits as well. For those unable to access natural environments regularly. This form of therapy uses immersive technology, such as virtual reality (VR) or guided audio and video sessions, to replicate the calming and rejuvenating experience of being in a forest. Engaging in virtual forest therapy can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by promoting relaxation and mindfulness. The visual and auditory stimuli of a forest, even when experienced virtually, can lower blood pressure, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. Additionally, virtual forest therapy provides a convenient and accessible way to connect with nature from the comfort of your home, making it an excellent option for those with limited mobility or busy schedules. By simulating the sights and sounds of a forest, it can help you unwind, refocus, and rejuvenate, contributing to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

What are the virtual forest therapy retreat dates and in person dates?

For more information on upcoming dates, check our calendar of events.