Jarod Anderson is an acclaimed nature poet and the creative mind behind The CryptoNaturalist podcast. Jarod has produced three best-selling poetry collections: Field Guide to the Haunted Forest, Love Notes from the Hollow Tree, and Leaf Litter. His newly released memoir, Something in the Woods Loves You, takes readers on a deeply personal journey through his lifelong struggle with depression, framed by his love and appreciation for the natural world. Jarod frequently includes nature in his work and shares how his relationship to the natural world transformed his mental health.

 

In today’s episode, Shay Beider welcomes Jarod to the show to delve into his memoir, exploring the themes of depression, mental health, and how nature can offer solace in dark times. This episode touches on sensitive topics, including depression and suicide, so for anyone listening who may be struggling, know that help is always available. You can contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. Jarod shares with listeners how he was able to find hope in the midst of depression and the importance of setting aside time to write and appreciate yourself more fully. Shay and Jarod discuss gender related issues and the effect that toxic masculinity can have on men's emotional expressiveness, outlook and self compassion. Jarod also reads some of his most well-loved poems. This episode invites listeners into the intersection between poetry, the natural world and mental health and charts a course for increasing happiness in your own life.

 

Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing 

 

Show Notes:

• Check out Jarod’s website here

• Read “Something in the Woods Loves You” here

• Listen to the The CryptoNaturalist podcast

• Read “Field Guide to the Haunted Forest”  here

• Check out the book “Love Notes from the Hollow Tree”

• Read “Leaf Litter”

 

This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity. 

Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org