CAT PANTALEO
 
 

OFFERINGS

Forest Bathing Experiences

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The world is holy. 
We are holy. 
All life is holy. 
Daily prayers are delivered on
the lips of breaking waves, 
the whisperings of grasses, 
the shimmering of leaves.
— Terry Tempest Williams
 

For the majority of human history, human beings have lived close to the land and graciously accepted the role of earth stewards. From my perspective, we seem to have forgotten our role as care-takers, and currently focus instead on what we want and how to get it – at any cost.  Contributing to this human transgression is the fact that we now spend less time in nature than any time in history, and as a direct result, are disconnected from the interdependence of all life. This disconnect is detrimental not only to our own physical and emotional well-being, but to the health of the more-than-human-world. It is of no dispute that a deep reverence and connection with the natural world is in our DNA and is essential for our health.   It is imperative that we restore the human-nature relationship by re-establishing connection to it with intention - by spending mindful time in it.  

A Forest Bathing Experience is an extraordinary opportunity to begin the restoration process: to reawaken our ancestral connection to the earth and rediscover the profound healing potential of being in Nature.  As a Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, my walk can be described as a deeply nourishing, exploratory, sensorial feast. Based on the Japanese practice, Shinrin-yoku, it is much different than a hike or plant walk.  Unlike a hike, a Forest Bathing Experience destination is inner calm, gratitude and healing through connection with the elements. It is a slow saunter, on and off trail, which consists of facilitated "invitations" that create opportunities to: Slow Down, Revive, Relax, Connect and Play, rather than a dissemination of information about flora and fauna. It is an experience of deep listening; of slowing down to the pace of the natural world so that we may attune ourselves to the quiet voices of the land.  Each walk ends with a sharing of tea made from local plants/trees.

Walks are offered to the public once each month throughout the year (click here to see calendar) as well as private walks for individuals and groups.  For the latter, please contact Cat.

 

Wellness Consultations

Utilizing her 20 years of experience as a holistic practitioner, Cat approaches each client as already whole and capable of healing.  After a thorough and in depth initial consult, she works with alleviating the main complaint while gently nourishing the deeper imbalance(s). Through optimizing nutrient status, using appropriate botanicals and nutraceuticals in combination with lifestyle changes and nature therapy, she awakens the body’s innate ability to heal on all levels – body, mind and spirit – facilitating superlative health.    

 
 

Plant Walks

We live in one of the most botanically diverse places in the continental US, excluding the coastline.  A plant walk with Cat is a delightful and informative experience and a wonderful opportunity to learn about the abundance of plant allies that live right outside your door.  Walks are offered primarily in the spring and summer months.  

Nature Medicine Walks

Medicine is ultimately about restoring balance.  A nature medicine walk with Cat is an extraordinary experience that blends forest bathing and field botany, providing a glimpse into the unseen dimensions of nature, and facilitating a deeper knowing of the plant allies in our region.  

While slowly sauntering on and off trail, a variety of invitations will be offered to awaken your senses, attune to the quiet voices of the land, and engage with the energy of the plants and trees.  A deeply restorative, contemplative and playful adventure designed to rekindle connection with yourself as a human being and the wisdom of our Earth Mother.

 

Youth Nature Connection

It is my dream that all children grow up like magnificent trees. Tall and strong. Kind and unique. Helping others to grow.
— Gathright, 2009

Cat considers connecting youth to nature one of the most important aspects of her work, as it is a crucial component of changing our current trajectory toward ecological collapse.  People care about what they are connected to, and protect what they care about.  We simply must provide both structured and unstructured opportunities for our youth to be outdoors, where they will cultivate caring, respectful relationships with themselves, each other and nature.  

Cat works for several non-profits in this regard, and also offers private individual and group experiences for youth.  For the latter, please contact her.

 

“Throughout the field immersion, Cat helps guide the heart and mind into engagement.  It’s both a meditative and educational experience.   After the class I have a better way of entering into, honoring, experiencing, and learning from nature.”