Your certified guides to
Nature and Forest Therapy
as a way of life
Immerse Yourself in Nature on 716 Appalachian Acres
Welcome to Just Love Forest, nestled in the serene town of Poetry, Georgia. We are a vibrant forest community passionately dedicated to sustainability and deepening connections with nature. Our nature preserve spans 716 breathtaking Appalachian acres, inviting you to roam freely and explore the wonders of the natural world.
At the heart of our ethos is forest therapy, an immersive practice inspired by the Japanese tradition of Shinrin-Yoku. This gentle journey engages all your senses, guiding you through the forest with a series of "invitations" that are as unique as the landscape itself. Each visit is a personal journey; there's no prescribed way to experience the forest, allowing your natural curiosity and presence to lead the way. Whether you seek solitude or a shared experience, the forest awaits to offer its tranquility and wisdom.
Beyond forest therapy, Just Love Forest embraces a holistic approach to well-being and environmental stewardship. Our recurring community weekend offerings include:
Secular Meditation Classes: Find inner peace and clarity through our guided meditation sessions, designed to foster mindfulness and connection in the tranquility of the forest.
Service Days: Participate in our community efforts to nurture and preserve the forest, a hands-on opportunity to contribute to sustainability and learn about ecological conservation.
Adobe Earth Building Experiences: Dive into the art of natural building with our adobe earth workshops, a unique chance to get your hands dirty while learning about sustainable construction methods.
Monthly Evening Drum Circles: Join us under the stars for vibrant drum circles, a communal celebration of rhythm, music, and the spirit of the forest.
We also invite you to explore our array of day experiences and retreats open to the public, each designed to enrich your connection with nature and community.
For those seeking a deeper bond with Just Love Forest, membership opens the door to private forest access, including overnight stays, and the opportunity to join our green burial community memorial garden. This initiative offers members a way to leave a lasting legacy that honors the cycle of life and the beauty of nature.
Whether you're drawn to the forest for a day of calming forest therapy, a meditative retreat, or the joy of building with earth, Just Love Forest offers a sanctuary where you can find peace, joy, and connection. Join us in Poetry, Georgia, and let the forest guide you to a place of renewal and inspiration.
Your Guides
James Bala Yancey, Steward
Certified Forest Therapy Guide
I find the truest places in nature. Having served as part of trail building teams in the mountains New Mexico, as a canoe trekking guide in the Boundary Waters Wilderness Canoe Area and now as a meditation teacher, the practice Forest Therapy offers deep personal learning and adventures. I am grateful to get to share the beauty of Just Love Forest with you.
Brandon Sutton, Steward
Certified Forest Therapy Guide
I’m a Georgia native who grew up exploring the pine forests in my hometown of Acworth. I’m most at home when playing in the woods and exploring life off the beaten path. My stewardship and intimate connection with Just Love Forest in the early stages of its evolution gives me a valuable perspective on the history of the land and the possibilities that the forest offers.
