On today’s Wild For Change podcast, we explore forest bathing with our guest, Jackie Kuang, Business Director at the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. I was recently introduced to forest bathing by a friend, and I found it to be a deeply impactful and authentic way to connect with nature and myself. Given how fast-paced our society is, we have forgotten how to slow down and reconnect with ourselves and with nature. When we slow down and reconnect with nature, we begin to remember who we are: a vital piece of nature. Through this remembering, we also realize that we are connected to all of nature and develop not only a sense of care for ourselves but also for all the other beings we share this planet with. It’s like a recalibration that gives us a deeper understanding of life.

I hope you enjoy this podcast as much as I did.

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This past summer, I finally marked off a destination from my bucket list: the California Redwoods State and National Parks. Entering the parks was one of the most magical experiences I have ever had. I felt like I was going back to prehistoric times. Some of the Redwoods have been on Earth for thousands of years and knowing this while hiking among these giants felt inconceivable, yet at the same time, I felt so honored to be in their presence.

While visiting Jedidiah Redwood State and National Park, I met a volunteer at the Grove of the Titans who stands outside rain or shine to greet visitors. Once a month, he will undertake a 4-5 hour commute to volunteer for an entire week in Redwoods State and National Park. There is something to be said about this level of commitment to a forest. The Redwoods have a rich ecological history and have stood witness to man’s evolution. This is a very special place, which is why my guest today is Deborah Zierten, Senior Manager of Education and Interpretation of Save the Redwoods League.

In this podcast, we will learn how Save the Redwoods League supports the Redwood forest and explore the unique history of the Redwoods, their complex ecosystem, and how they help protect us from climate change. We will also discuss the current threats the Redwoods face and how we can help ensure their future.

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On a new Wild For Change podcast, we will learn about the importance of outdoor nature-based learning with our guest, Teresa Weed, who is the Policy and Advocacy Coordinator from Illinois Early Childhood Outdoors.

We can learn so much from spending time in nature.

Being in nature encourages exploration and inspiration, sparks a sense of wonder and connection, and provides a space for reflection and a broader perspective on life. As we grow into adults, however, it seems that sense of wonder and exploration slips away from our lives. But, imagine being a child. Exploration, wonder and curiosity are already part of a child’s makeup. Letting a child be themselves in nature and learning outdoors can provide endless lessons and tools they can use throughout their lifetime.

Links to learn more:

Join the movement!

To access the national movement for outdoor preschool licensing, or to find collaborators in your region, check out Natural Start Alliance.

To get connected in Illinois, reach out to Illinois Early Childhood Outdoors IECO, or the Northern Illinois Nature Play Association NINPA.

Professional Development, etc.
For consultation to support outdoor early learning programs in Illinois contact Teresa Weed directly at forestplayschool@gmail.com.

Research Libraries:

Green Schoolyards America is a free online resource library and virtual community of practice designed to help schools and districts move their classes and programs outside across the country and around the world

Children and Nature Network curates the world’s largest collection of peer-reviewed literature about nature’s benefits for children.

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