Community Talk – Slowing Down to Take Action – Green Living Festival

In Partnership with Missouri Botanical Gardens & EarthWays Center

Presented by Jess Thenhaus, Nature-Based Wellness Coach & Certified Forest Therapy Guide

In a culture that often values speed, productivity, and constant doing, slowing down can feel radical. But when it comes to caring for the Earth, slowing down isn’t about doing less—it’s about noticing more.

This insightful talk explores how mindful time in nature strengthens our relationship with the living world and inspires more conscious, sustainable choices. By reconnecting with the natural rhythms around us, we begin to see the environment not as a resource to be managed, but as a relationship to be tended.

Participants will explore:

• How slowing down in nature can deepen our awareness of environmental issues and help us respond from a place of care rather than fear or overwhelm
• The role of mindfulness and sensory attention in making everyday choices more intentional and less reactive
• Why nature connection fosters a sense of reciprocity—helping us move from “fixing” the planet to actively caring for it
• Simple, accessible ways to integrate nature-based practices into daily life to support both personal well-being and collective action

Whether you’re new to forest bathing and nature-based mindfulness or simply seeking a deeper sense of connection in your sustainability journey, this session will offer both inspiration and grounded practices to take with you.