Reciprocity

“Knowing that you love the earth changes you, activates you to defend and protect and celebrate. But when you feel that the earth loves you in return, that feeling transforms the relationship from a one-way street into a sacred bond.” ― Robin Wall Kimmerer

Forest Immersion enhances nature-relatedness and fosters human interconnection. Researchers have found that exposure to nature results in participants valuing community and connectedness over more superficial concerns, such as personal gain or fame.

Participants also become more empathetic, generous and willing to share with others and care for their environment. They are more likely to feel their life has meaning and to report a sense of oneness with other human beings and the natural world.

Finger Lakes Forest Immersion has a "pay it forward" process so people or organizations who can contribute more fund walks for underserved groups such as people with developmental disabilities, people in a local alternative to incarceration program, and people recovering from illness.