Finding My Buds: A Personal Reflection on Becoming a Forest Therapy Guide

Last week, I received my certification as an ANFT-certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. This milestone marks the completion of a journey that has been anything but linear.

As part of our final project, we were asked to create something called a Harvest—a personal expression of what we’ve gathered through the "Way of the Guide." It could be anything: a poem, a ritual, a song. I chose to create my website—not because it was flashy or polished—but because, at the time, it felt like a miracle.

You see, for months, I couldn’t even look at a screen. I’d suffered multiple concussions over the years, and staring at a computer triggered symptoms I couldn’t ignore. When I was finally able to piece together my website, it wasn’t just about launching a business. It was about reclaiming a part of myself. My brain. My focus. My hope.

A Shift in Perspective

At our final cohort meeting, we were invited to share our Harvest projects. I hesitated. Not because I hadn’t created something meaningful, but because something inside me had shifted. The Way of the Guide didn’t quite align with the business I was building. Or maybe it’s more accurate to say: the business wasn’t the point anymore. Forest therapy had become a way of living, not just a source of income. Yes, I want this to be my job—but more than that, I want it to be my offering. A way to live slowly, deeply, in relationship. Not something transactional. Something sacred.

Why “Buds in Bloom”?

I haven’t shared much about the name of this business. But it carries the soul of the whole thing. When I first dreamed of Buds in Bloom, it was a shared vision with my dear friend, Chimwemwe. Chimwemwe means “joy” or “we are happy.” And he was just that—joy in human form. He was considering buying the house next door. We talked about growing cut flowers and lavender, maybe building something healing on the land. We didn’t have a business plan, just a knowing that we wanted to build something meaningful, something that gave back.

Then Chim got sick. Stage 4 cancer.

I sat with that grief and thought hard about what to name this thing we dreamed of: “Buds,” because it was my buddy and me; "in Bloom,” because we live in Bloom Township; and because I hoped that even in loss, something could still grow.

At the time, I had no idea forest therapy would become my path. I had no idea that this would be the heart of the work. But in time, the name revealed its gift. It wasn’t just about Chim and me—it was about every new “bud” I would meet. Fellow guides. Walk participants. Wellness partners. Strangers becoming friends. People showing up for the land—and for each other.

Chimwemwe, a soul full of joy, laughter, and love for the land—his spirit inspires every step of Buds in Bloom.

Who Was Chimwemwe?

"Chim" was the kindest person I have ever known. A true lover of the land. He carried a gentleness and generosity that made everyone feel seen. I chose him as my daughter’s godfather not just because I trusted him—but because he was the most “like God” person I’ve ever known.

Sure, he loved to party. He brought joy into every space he entered. But his joy was rooted in care. He was always thinking about how to support others. How to build community. How to love well.

There was a time after he died when I wondered if I’d ever find another friend like that again. Maybe I won’t. Some people simply can’t be replaced. But something unexpected has happened through this work. As I guide walks and meet others drawn to nature, I’ve started to feel like Chim is quietly showing me where my people are. With every step, I’m finding my buds—kind, wholehearted people who remind me that I’m not alone in this.

And I know I’m not the only one who felt this way about him. Chim planted seeds in all of us—his friends, his family, his community. Each of us carries something of him. I can’t wait to see how each of us will bloom in our own way, with his care and his joy inside us.

The Real Harvest

So maybe my Harvest wasn’t just the website. Or even the certification.

Maybe the real harvest is this: That love doesn’t end. That grief, when honored, can guide you. That the forest can hold the pieces of you that feel lost—and help you come back home. This practice has changed me. It’s not just what I do. It’s who I’m becoming.

And I’m so grateful to be blooming alongside all of you.

Embracing Nature's Wisdom

In the embrace of nature, I’ve found a sanctuary. The trees whisper secrets, and the wind carries stories. Each walk I guide is a reminder of the healing power of the natural world. As I tread softly on the forest floor, I invite others to join me in this sacred space. Together, we breathe in the fresh air, allowing it to fill our lungs and hearts.

The rustling leaves and chirping birds create a symphony that calms the mind. I often pause, inviting participants to close their eyes and listen. In those moments, we connect not just with nature, but with ourselves. It’s a gentle reminder that we are all part of something larger.

The Journey of Healing

Healing is not a destination; it’s a journey. Each step we take in the forest is a step toward understanding ourselves better. I’ve learned that it’s okay to feel vulnerable. It’s okay to let the tears flow. Nature holds space for our emotions, allowing us to process and release what no longer serves us.

As we walk, I encourage sharing stories—those that weigh heavy on our hearts and those that bring us joy. In this sharing, we create bonds that transcend the ordinary. We become a community, united by our experiences and our desire for healing.

The Future of Buds in Bloom

Looking ahead, I see endless possibilities for Buds in Bloom. I envision workshops that delve deeper into the art of forest therapy. I dream of creating wellness products that resonate with the essence of nature. Each offering will be a reflection of the love and care that Chim instilled in me.

I want to expand this sanctuary, inviting more souls to experience the transformative power of the forest. Together, we can cultivate a space where healing and connection flourish.

In this journey, I am reminded of the beauty of growth. Just as the trees reach for the sky, we too can reach for our dreams. With every bud that blooms, we honor the legacy of those who have come before us.

Conclusion: A Call to Connect

As I close this chapter and look toward the future, I invite you to join me. Let’s walk together in the forest, share our stories, and embrace the healing that awaits us.

Together, we can create a tapestry of connection, love, and growth. Let’s honor the past while nurturing the present.

I’m excited to see how we all bloom in our own unique ways.

— Michelle