What Nature Can Teach Us About Growth, Change, and Resilience
As a Master Coach, Coaching Supervisor, and someone who has spent more hours in reflective walks than I’d like to admit, I’ve learned that nature is a powerful co-coach. Walking with clients—whether along Lake Zürich or through the woods behind my office—has revealed something genuinely fascinating:
Nature always has the answer.
It’s not magic (though it often feels like it). It’s the way nature mirrors the themes we navigate in coaching: growth, change, resilience, and balance. Ask a question in the forest, and sooner or later, nature offers a metaphor in return.
And if you’re not quite convinced, let me introduce you to Indie, my miniature Schnauzer and part-time coaching assistant.
Lessons in Balance: The Wisdom of the Forest
Indie loves trees. He’s convinced they exist purely for his sniffing pleasure, but I think he’s onto something bigger. Because trees are masters of resilience, connection, and balance—three things we could all use a little more of.
And just like our Wheel of Whole Body Balance tool, forests thrive when four key areas are in harmony:
Connection & Belonging: The Forest Network
Scientists have discovered that trees communicate and support each other through underground fungal networks, sometimes called the “Wood Wide Web.” When one tree is struggling, nearby trees send it nutrients. When danger looms, they warn each other.
Coaching Insight: Who is part of your support network? Are you connected in a way that nourishes you—or do you need to strengthen your roots?
Physical Wellbeing: Strength in Adaptation
Ever noticed how trees bend with the wind but rarely break? Their secret is flexibility. Instead of resisting, they adapt, growing in ways that protect their strength. Some even release chemicals to make their wood tougher when stressed.
Coaching Insight: Where in your life do you need more flexibility? Are you pushing too hard instead of allowing yourself to adapt and grow in a healthier way?
Mental Wellbeing: The Stillness of Nature
A walk in the woods isn’t just pleasant—it’s scientifically proven to reduce stress. Studies show that spending time in nature lowers cortisol, reduces anxiety, and increases focus. The Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) isn’t just a wellness trend; it’s a powerful tool for resetting the mind.
Coaching Insight: How often do you allow yourself mental stillness? If you’re constantly “on,” where can you create more moments of pause?
Emotional Wellbeing: The Cycle of Change
Forests don’t cling to the past. Leaves fall, seasons change, and yet, each stage is essential for growth. The tree doesn’t resist autumn—it trusts that new leaves will come.
Coaching Insight: What are you holding onto that no longer serves you? What if you let go, trusting that the next season will bring new opportunities?
Bringing Nature Into Your Coaching Practice
The Wheel of Whole Body Balance helps coaches and clients reflect on these areas, identifying where more balance is needed. And nature is the perfect place to explore it.
Next time you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or in need of clarity, try this:
- Take a question into nature. (No distractions—just you, the outdoors, and maybe a Schnauzer.)
- Observe what stands out. A fallen tree? A winding path? A strong, towering oak?
- Notice what metaphor emerges. Does it mirror something in your life?
- Reflect on what message nature is offering you.
And if all else fails? Indie suggests the time-tested stress relief method of rolling in something interesting and then sprinting away joyfully. (Though maybe don’t try this one in public.)
P.S. Want More Tools Like This?
Discover our Balance Your Life Tool today!