Andrea Prazmowski’s days begin with a walk along the Ottawa River’s evergreen trees, immersed in the scenic presence of Mother Nature. She is sharing the joy and art of connecting with nature as a forest therapy guide.
On Valentine’s Day, a group of Ottawans partook in a scenic walk, with Prazmowski as a guide — part of grassroots organization Happiness Habits 613’s 28 days of happiness initiative.
The weeks of happiness in February include free events that connect Ottawans with nature, community, and fitness — forest therapy being one of them.
Through forest therapy, Prazmowski aims to bring back the lost art of living in the moment and focusing on what’s in front of us, pointing to the ambient sight of the sparkling white snow, the clear blue sky and the array of vibrant trees.
“In the busyness of our lives, we can so easily forget that we are also part of nature,” she said. “These walks in nature help us remember that we’re something so much bigger than ourselves.”
As the wind whispered in the background, Prazmowski gathered attendees in an area surrounded by dark pine trees to reflect on their surroundings.
“The connection [to nature] is nourishing in so many different ways,” she said. “Walks in nature help us come into our bodies and remember our bodies’ sensations.”
Spending time in nature reduces stress levels and lowers blood pressure, improving overall mental health and cognitive function, according to the Ontario Psychological Association. The simple sight of trees, the sound of bird whistles and the breath of fresh air can elevate concentration levels and result in a better mood.
“When I’m sad, I go for a walk among the trees,” Prazmowski said. “When I’m happy, I go for a walk among the trees.”
Saturday was Amina Daoudi’s first time attending a Forest Therapy event.
Being outside and walking in the snow surrounded by trees after a long day brought Daoudi immense joy, she said.
“I love this event because it combines nature and meditation. I feel happy right now, and I feel like I’m up to do other things.”
For Stephen Bierbrier, the co-leader of Happiness Habits 613, the walk was also an opportunity for everyone to slow down and focus on connection.
“Just to be present, to be mindful, to be able to connect with nature and organically connect with the community,” Bierbrier said. “That’s beautiful.”
Prazmowski ended the walk with a ten-minute meditation for a final moment of reflection.
“It’s just such an honour to be able to offer people this practice that brings people to that kind of a place together.”
Featured image by Shamila Qurizadah Gauhar/the Charlatan
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