Welcome to the Nature and Systems Institute

Deepening Connections with Nature and Each Other

At the Nature and Systems Institute, we understand the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals. We help you reconnect with yourself and the world around you through the power of nature.

VISION

Humans are deeply aware and inspired by the beauty, complexity, interrelatedness, and mutual dependency of all beings on our planet.

MISSION

To promote a world of interconnectedness among humans, other species, and the entire natural world that promotes health and sustainable life through education, practice, research, and cross-coalitions.

Institute Domains and Goals

  • Promote an appreciation for the beauty of complex systems, and our place as humans in them

  • To establish and maintain ongoing rigorous medical education to incorporate nature into mainstream healthcare

  • To effectively translate an understanding of complex systems into the design of healthcare ecosystems

  • To promote the interconnectedness and relationships of nature as a strategy for public health

  • To contribute to the accelerating movements toward a reciprocal partnership with nature and the environment that includes human life as part of overall sustainability.

  • To restore play, vulnerability, and spontaneity as a way of being for adults outside

Nature Inspired Leadership, Wellbeing, and Systems Design

Our Programs at a Glance

  • TRAINING

    Become certified to guide Forest Bathing and incorporate Nature as Medicine into your practice. Or, learn practical strategies to balance your professional ambitions with personal well-being. Our training programs are designed with the unique needs of physicians in mind.

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  • COACHING

    Our group coaching programs help you build a supportive community with like-minded individuals.

  • LEADERSHIP

    We understand the unique challenges faced by healthcare professionals. We help you reconnect with yourself and the world around you through the power of nature.

  • RETREATS

    Our retreats provide a safe space for you to unwind, reflect, and rediscover your passions.

About Dr. Susan Abookire

Our founder, Dr. Susan Abookire, is a Harvard-trained physician with a passion for systems design and nature. As a former systems aviation engineer with over 20 years of experience in healthcare leadership and education, she brings a unique perspective to systems design, nature as medicine, and medical education. Dr. Abookire is committed to helping healthcare providers, patients, and all people find balance, inspiration, and connection with the beauty and power of nature.

What Our Participants Are Saying

What Our Participants Are Saying

“I’m thrilled with my decision to embark on my journey towards becoming a Nature as Medicine certified provider. This course is offered in collaboration with Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and with Massachusetts General Brigham, a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School. I spent the weekend with an amazing group of doctors, nurse practitioners, psychiatrists, and other licensed professionals. It was energizing to be at Rocky Mountain National Park surrounded by inspiring colleagues integrating nature into their practices. The course continues online through October and I am eager to learn more from Ronna Schneberger and Susan Abookire BSEE MD MPH. If you are a health care provider, I highly recommend that you consider this course.” - Noel Hiers