Forest Therapy and Nervous System Regulation with Laura London | Deep Work out Loud

In this episode of Deep Work Out Loud, Julie Harris Oliver is joined by leadership strategist and executive coach Laura London (founder of Calocedrus Partners, former McKinsey leader) for a candid, coach-style exploration of forest therapy—and why Laura believes it's a practical tool for leadership right now. They unpack what "forest therapy" means, how sensory awareness connects to nervous system regulation, and why slowing down can be harder than it sounds. Julie brings real skepticism, including a vivid story of an experience in nature that left her feeling unsafe, and Laura helps examine the protective story that followed—and what it might be costing. Along the way, Laura shares how the practice became personal through her family's experience with sensory processing disorder (SPD), and Julie describes a small experiment she's trying to bring more quiet, presence, and reset into everyday life.

00:00 Welcome to Deep Work Out Loud + Meet Laura London

01:13 Laura's Journey: From Early Work Curiosity to McKinsey & Coaching

04:28 Today's Topic: What Is Forest Therapy (and Why It Matters Now)

05:53 The Science: Senses, Nervous System Regulation & the AI Age

08:42 Laura's Personal Story: Fragility, Authenticity, and Finding Relief in Nature

10:50 Sensory Processing Disorder & the 5-4-3-2-1 Nature Practice (with Her Son)

15:01 Forest Bathing vs. Forest Therapy: Guided Walks, Principles, and Slowing Down

18:24 Julie the Skeptic: "Nature Will Try to Kill You" + A Beach Injury Story

21:22 Coaching the Reframe: Protection vs. Limitation, Awe, and Belonging in Nature

27:50 Small Experiments: Dog Walks Without Headphones + Why Quiet Isn't Wasted Time

31:31 Leadership Takeaways: Regulated Leaders, Contagious Emotions, and Practical Tips

35:31 Where to Find Laura + Final Invitation to Try Nature This Week

Find Laura HERE

Find Julie HERE

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