Nature as Medicine - Why Forest Therapy Isn't Just Another Wellness Trend

For many women, "get out in nature" feels like wellness advice we can't afford - another should on the pile when we're already drowning in responsibilities. Environmental scientist and nature therapy guide Belinda McCawley dismantles this narrative entirely. Through her journey from hypervigilant multitasker to forest therapy guide, she reveals how nature connection isn't luxury self-care - it's essential medicine for our overwhelmed nervous systems. This isn't about finding three hours for forest bathing (though that sounds divine). It's about discovering that every breath connects you to nature, that a single tree can be your therapist, and that sometimes the most radical act of self-care is simply giving yourself permission to soften. Belinda's wisdom will change how you see both nature and your own worthiness of rest.

This Episode

Belinda shares her journey from environmental science to forest therapy, exploring:

• Why time with nature matters more than time in nature
• How breathing connects us to the natural world in every moment
• The science behind forest bathing and nervous system regulation
• Creating "pockets of joy" when life gets overwhelming
• Building responsive rather than rigid nature-based practices
• Why that tick taught her everything about compassion

Quotable Moments

"You don't deserve rest. You need it." - Belinda McCawley

"By simply breathing, we are connected with nature... this simple act of breathing, this force of nature, this breath of life is a connection with nature because it's an exchange with the trees and the plants." - Belinda McCawley

"I realized that I'm not separate from nature. I'm part of nature... that's also a mirror reflected for myself, having compassion for myself." - Belinda McCawley

"When we return to nature, we're returning to ourselves because we're not separate from nature. We're part of nature." - Belinda McCawley

"It's okay to be different every day. It's okay that that day I didn't want to journal... I am human and to honor what feels right for me on that particular day." - Belinda McCawley

"I see it as role modeling. Imagine if your children or your grandchildren... can see you out there giving yourself permission to be, to sit with nature." - Belinda McCawley

Connect With Us

• Follow She Speaks on Instagram: @shespeakswellbeingstrategies
• Visit our website: www.shespeakswellbeing.com
• Connect with Belinda: Mindful in Nature https://mindfulforestbathing.com.au/

A note on Belinda

Belinda McCawley is an environmental scientist, registered meditation teacher,
climate anxiety coach, and nature therapy guide. With formal qualifications in
environmental management, sustainability and psychology, she weaves science and soul into her work, helping people reconnect with the natural world as a
pathway to healing, clarity, and calm. Through her business Mindful in Nature, Belinda creates gentle, grounding experiences
that support mental health, emotional resilience, and a deeper sense of
belonging

A Note on Wellbeing

She Speaks is dedicated to amplifying women's voices on self-care and wellbeing. While we share personal experiences, please remember that this podcast is not a
substitute for professional mental health support. If you're struggling, we
encourage you to reach out to a qualified mental health practitioner.

She Speaks is proudly supported by the Western Australian Government and Department of Communities Women's Grants for a Stronger Future Grants Program.