“The art of Shinrin Yoku practice turns toward spirituality in having trust to the forest to be our guide by our own intuition. At this point, the emotional exploration could have similarities to other self-reflective practices such as “arts and health”, but in Shinrin Yoku, the holiness of nature/forest is in center. I learned a lot from the practice in Japan, also being inspired by Shinto and Buddhist practices from our pilgrimage. Shinrin Yoku might be a way of practicing ecospirituality?

I have learned a lot on my personal journey, and I am inspired by the power of nature for the personal and emotional development. I feel very grateful for having the opportunity to take this journey – with so much support along the way! I feel that I am aware my inner values and my ikigai, but I still need some trust in believing that I have a message for the world. I work on this. Trying to take more risks, trying to be visible when the chance is there. Be bolder in owning and sharing my own story. I need to write more
for different audiences. 

Best moments? I think there were several good moments in Japan. Everything there. In my own practice, I value that my participants met me with curiosity and openness. These are good moments although not necessarily transforming personal development. I am also happy to see that Krusebakken is a good place for Shinrin Yoku. By using this place for my own practice and for training practice, I have become more aware of the specific qualities of the place, which I now find meaningful to drive 20 minutes to reach.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to be on this journey with the possibility of combining the web training with immersion in Japan. I feel very grateful to share this journey with Gunvor – from the idea (in Iceland on the conference “how to create a world we want to live in”, summer 2022) through the whole training and Japan experience to thinking further on how we can progress our professional development together. I am very grateful for meeting other open-minded guides in Nara.

Not at least, I am very grateful for your deep involving and enthusiasm in connecting with me and your great passion in conveying the path to deeper immersion in nature. You inspire, Milena, with your enthusiasm and wisdom! Look forward to future developments and progressing shared interests .”