Testimonies
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Testimonies 〰️
I am writing to share my heartfelt feedback on my recent experience forest bathing.
I love to hike and just simply be in nature.
Lane from Elemental Recovery explained how nature can be healing; helping me to understand why I feel so restored and grounded after spending time outside.
Lane pointed out specific trees like Hemlock, Mountain Laurel, and Pine; teaching us about the powerful boosts that each can have on our well-being. Taking this intentional time in the forest helped to awaken my senses.. like noticing the sun shine through the canopy of Mountain Laurel trees, feeling the texture of moss on the trees and rocks, hearing the crunch of leaves, and hearing the beautiful “hoots” from our owl friend.
It was especially neat to learn how certain trees release phytoncides and to actually experience them firsthand due to a fallen pine tree we saw, and smelled! I also learned that phytoncides aren’t limited to forest environments and that I can benefit from similar plant compounds at home, like cutting fresh vegetables in my kitchen.
This realization was a great reminder that even small, every day moments can also support my well-being.
Overall, this experience was very beneficial and it truly gave my nervous system exactly what it needed. I left feeling lighter and more calm, more connected to nature and to myself, and more aware of how I can intentionally support my mental and physical health.
Thank you for such a meaningful opportunity of learning and healing.
With gratitude, Lindsey
Today I had the chance to hike the Longleaf Trail at Sprewell Bluff with Lane through Elemental Pathways Inc., and it was a really special day.
Lane, one of the founders of Elemental Pathways Inc., planned the hike and guided us along the trail. She thoughtfully chose a trail that was well suited to my skill level and abilities while still allowing us to see some of the most beautiful parts of the park. She has a lot of knowledge and experience in hiking, backpacking, and outdoor skills, which made the whole hike feel safe and well planned.
What stood out most about Lane is how much she genuinely cares about helping others enjoy the outdoors. Her patience, leadership, kindness, and enthusiasm made the hike both accessible and enjoyable.
As a blind hiker, getting out on trails like this requires careful planning and a guide I can trust, and Lane was exactly that. She did an incredible job guiding me through rocky downhill sections and shallow water crossings, calmly describing the terrain and helping me place my steps safely. Because of her guidance and encouragement, I was able to complete the trail and truly enjoy the beauty of the area.
I’ve wanted to join local hiking groups for years, but without a sighted guide it simply wasn’t possible for me to do safely. I don’t know of any other organizations or guides in my area that offer hikes like this, which makes what Elemental Pathways Inc. is doing especially important. Without programs like this, many people face barriers to outdoor activities like hiking. For people like me, being able to do something like this simply wouldn’t be possible otherwise.
I’m very grateful for the day and excited to see Elemental Pathways Inc. grow and help more people get outside and enjoy trails like this.
Mandy
Oh, my Mandy, I was just crying as I read this out loud to my husband. This is so beautiful and what I want to represent when I am helping and guiding others, especially those with any type of barrier (physical or emotional) that allows them to explore freely! Your kind write-up will be a beacon to our future success at Elemental Pathways! ~ Lane