Shirley Gleeson

Shirley Gleeson FTI Programme & Research Coordinator, Senior Trainer & Mentor Shirley Gleeson is a nature and well-being Consultant and the founder of Ecowellness Consulting Limited, formerly known as Nature, Health & Wellbeing Ireland. She lives in Dublin. Shirley holds master’s degrees in both health promotion and social work and has over twenty years experience working in the areas of health and social care in the public and private sector. She designs nature based interventions to improve and enhance people's health and well-being and facilitates nature-based training for mental health professionals. She was the first Certified Forest Therapy Guide in Europe, after completing her training in the U.S with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT) in 2014. She was a mentor and trainer with the ANFT and has mentored guides from all over the world. Shirley has extensive postgraduate training in ecotherapy, expressive arts therapy, counselling, stress management, dialectical behavioral therapy skills, behavioral family therapy and therapeutic use of mindfulness. She has presented her forest therapy research and practice at international conferences in Ireland, Greece, Switzerland, the UK and Austria and recently addressed the United Nations in Geneva on the topic of forests and human health. Shirley trained as a nature guide with Eco Training in South Africa and has completed an internship with the South African National Parks. She has a deep love and respect for nature, especially trees.

Upcoming Programs by Shirley Gleeson

“Menla offers integrative healing—merging Tibetan, Ayurvedic and other holistic traditions—along with fresh clean air, hikes and perhaps the most authentic Tibetan treatment therapies this side of Lhasa.”

Rona Berg, Organic Spa

“I honestly can’t say enough good things about this space, the land, the facilities, the staff, the stewards, their events. I will never forget this place and hope to come back. Forever grateful for such beautiful blessings!”

Jenna Bray

“I have many words but I will use this: streams. This whole valley is full of incredible streams. I came as a part of YTTP retreat this past weekend and loved how the valley of Menla just belonged to each and everyone one of us, together and alone at the same time, I stayed at Dragon house and loved how at home you are made feel though no one really is there guiding you, you are your own guide. I will remember this stay for a long time, the 2 days will last a life time. I hope to return one day. Thank you!”

Lucie T

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