We were lucky to catch up with Cindy Olsen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Cindy, appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

When I made the decision to step away from my corporate finance career 13 years ago in order to devote more time to raising my two boys, I embarked on a journey to find a way to contribute meaningfully to the world while maintaining the flexibility I needed. Given my life-long and deep-rooted curiosity for the natural world, I chose to become a part-time Environmental Educator. A nearby nature center provided a program to train volunteers on the local flora and fauna, enabling us to lead educational programs for our local schools. As I spent my days guiding children through forest trails, I witnessed firsthand the consequences of the growing disconnection between humans and nature. Many children were unfamiliar with the nature in their own backyards, leading to a fear of the unknown. This disconnection extended beyond children – even the adult chaperones, teachers, and parents I interacted with approached the forest with noticeable resistance.
As a naturalist, I was learning more about the pressing health issues affecting our planet. I was also watching the impact of declining mental health of humans in society. It became evident to me that there is a correlation between the two. Nature connection is a pillar of wellness that was being abandoned in our race to keep up with the pace of the modern world.
In response, I began creating events that offer people an opportunity to restore and reconnect with the natural world in a way that feels safe and enjoyable. I bring warm wool blankets and hot teas in the cold weather months. I bring tick barriers and iced teas in the warm weather months. We practice healing body movement, walking meditation, independent sit time and group sharing opportunities. I share historical stories of the land and current stories about what is happening in the natural world.
All of these elements offer the participants ways to unpack daily stress, connect with others authentically and open up to a connection to something larger. This mindful outdoor community is flourishing, with participants taking their experiences back to their everyday lives. They are not only becoming more involved as stewards of the earth but also deepening their connections with their loved ones, thereby creating a positive ripple effect on the world around them.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

When I started the journey of creating events aimed at reigniting the connection between humans and the natural world, I leaned into the profound practice of Shinrin-Yoku, commonly known as “Forest Bathing.” This beautiful practice which came out of Japan in the late 80s, was a proven method to help people open up to the natural world with all our senses. When practiced it’s as if we are being “showered” by all the effects of nature. To further my expertise, I enrolled in the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership, earning certification as a Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide. Additionally, I became a certified Forest Therapy Guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and honed my meditation teaching skills as a certified instructor with Mindful Schools.
Because offering a safe space is essential, I also acquired First Aid Certification from NOLS. Continuously dedicated to expanding my knowledge, I engage in ongoing education on local flora and fauna, utilizing resources such as the Master Naturalist program for New York State affiliated with Cornell University.
This all contributes to a skillset that facilitates safe, informative, and healing experiences in the forest. My events range from one-time gatherings in various parks and nature-focused organizations to multi-day destination retreats. I also offer speaking engagements, corporate retreat facilitation, and training workshops for nature-based organizations seeking to infuse mindfulness into their offerings.
While many have embraced similar practices in my area since the inception of Cindy By Nature in 2018, I think my authenticity sets me apart. I am committed to offering genuine interactions that foster an environment where others are encouraged to show up as their authentic selves. My enthusiasm for the wonders of the natural world fuels my joy in sharing the knowledge on this transformative journey.
Operating in suburban surroundings with access to nature, I recognize the challenge of maintaining connection amidst the pace of modern life. In this space, I stand out not just as a pioneer but as someone who values the ripple effect of positive change.
Beyond awards and media features, my proudest moments stem from witnessing the transformative impact on participants. My “forest friends” have emerged as leaders in sustainability, educators, and mindful outdoor guides within their communities. The deepened connections among participants have cultivated a community that mirrors the collaborative nourishment found in a natural forest ecosystem.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Word of mouth. I can’t say it any louder. The best source has been the most organic source. This all started with just a few people who were intrigued in trying something new. They came. They loved it. They told their friends.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I recall vividly the moment I decided I had to step away from my corporate career. I had 9 month old and I was 6 months pregnant. I was living in New York City, but traveling the world because my position was supporting an international business. I was in Vienna, Austria when I got a call from our nanny back in New York City, who let me know my 9 month old had a high fever that wasn’t responding to medication. I was depleted, pregnant and needed to get home to my child. I realized my life was passing by me as I just sat in this daily pool of stress. I decided in that moment to hit pause to reassess how I was going to spend the rest of my life with intention.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.cindybynature.com
• Instagram: @cindybynature
• Facebook: facebook.com/cindybynature
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/cindy-olsen-1997041
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/cindy-by-nature-larchmont?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)