“I felt my lungs inflate with the onrush of scenery—air, mountains, trees, people. I thought,
‘This is what it is to be happy.'”
Sylvia Plath
American poet, novelist, and short story writer
Kathleen Lowe
Founder & President
Kathleen Lowe, the founder of Friends of the Forest, is a certified Mindful Outdoor Guide through the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership and the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT). Her walks adhere to the evidence-based framework developed by the ANFT, which is rooted in the Japanese tradition of Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), ecotherapy, and the Way of Council. This standardized approach is designed to enhance wellness, reduce stress, and nurture the health of both individuals and communities through guided, immersive walks in forests and natural settings.
Kathleen’s walks are specifically designed for women, creating a safe, nurturing space for women to slow down, connect deeply with the natural world, and support their personal healing, mindfulness, and sense of peace. Holding space for women in nature is especially important, as it allows women to reconnect with their innate wisdom, build community, and release the stress and demands of modern life in a restorative, supportive environment.
These sensory-rich experiences help participants engage with nature on a deeper level—through the sound of leaves rustling, the scent of pine, or the feel of the earth beneath their feet—unlocking their body’s innate ability to heal and restore balance. This practice has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, boost immune function, and improve overall well-being.
In addition to her certifications in nature and mindfulness guiding, Kathleen has recently completed training in somatic healing, which she now integrates into her forest bathing practice. This adds a layer of depth to her walks, inviting participants to connect not only with nature but also with their bodies, emotions, and energy. Somatic practices help women become more attuned to their physical sensations, releasing stored tension and trauma, and grounding them in the present moment. Together, these practices create a truly holistic experience for the body, mind, and spirit.
Kathleen's love for nature extends beyond guiding forest therapy walks—she is also a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and sustainability. Through her work, she strives to inspire others to develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world and take action toward preserving it for future generations. By focusing on women in her work, Kathleen hopes to foster a ripple effect of healing and empowerment, as these experiences often lead participants to greater self-awareness and their roles as stewards of the environment.
With a degree in Art History from Brown University, Kathleen believes that art and nature are deeply intertwined, and she enjoys incorporating elements of both into her guided walks. For her, nature is a living canvas, rich with texture, color, and beauty that invites personal expression and reflection.
Kathleen finds perpetual inspiration in the tranquility, joy, and depth of emotion that the natural world evokes. Through her personal journey toward wellness, she has discovered the profound healing and support that nature offers, and it is her honor to share that gift with other women, helping them to reclaim their connection to themselves, each other, and the earth.
Luna, My Mystical Guide
Rest in Peace Sweetest Girl
Luna Left Our Earth On Monday, November 6, 2023
My beautiful Percheron, Luna, embodied beauty, positive energy, and healing power. Now that she has moved on from this world, her spirit continues to shine, offering her wisdom and love in a new way. In her mid-20s, Luna retired from her former life and stepped into a role that perfectly suited her gentle soul—a teacher, a wise sage—helping us humans connect with our hearts and bodies in sacred, shared moments.
Even in her passing, Luna's energy surrounds me, inviting me to open my heart and tap into the inner wisdom and connection she always inspired. Horses are mystical beings of this earth, and Luna was a guide like no other, helping to balance body, mind, soul, and emotions.
Though she is no longer here physically, Luna's magickal spirit lives on, offering me—and anyone who knew her—the chance to reflect, be present, and feel her love in every moment. Her energy will always be with me.