Researcher · Program Designer · Technologist
Applying software development, AI evals, and acoustic fieldwork to nature-based health. Helping organizations protect quiet corridors, build restorative daily habits, and measure real-world impact.
From Technology to Trees
A non-linear journey from building software products to investigating forest soundscapes and sensory restoration.
Tech and Technostress
Started out in software at Microsoft and tech startups, followed by founding 2 edtech startups. While living in Japan, heavy screen time and technostress prompted a search for real ways to reset the nervous system.
Mountain Monks and Shinrin-Yoku
Tried a few practices in Japan, including training as a mountain monk and the more chill version, shinrin-yoku. Experiencing such a profound drop in stress sparked professional guide training in both Japan and Canada.
Forest Soundscapes and AI
That relief inspired a PhD at UBC investigating forest soundscapes and sensory restoration. Today, that work connects back to tech, ensuring domain experts and the more-than-human world are considered by AI models.
Empirical Evidence, Real-World Systems
The Four Pillars of Connection in Nature
Developed through doctoral fieldwork, this framework identifies the relationships that emerge when people inhabit natural settings. Rather than distinct tasks, these pillars represent the dimensions of relationship that arise through presence:
Self
Inner knowing, nervous system regulation, and personal vitality.
Others
Human relationship, shared presence, and community connection.
More-than-Human World
Forests, waters, wildlife, and living ecosystems.
Meaning and Spirit
Purpose, transcendence, and belonging to something larger.
The Ecosystem
Initiatives translating scientific research into daily tools, public policy, and creative media.
Sit Spot Club
A daily habit of noticing nearby nature. 10-minute audio-guided practices grounded in the Stepwise Sensory Arc for stress reduction and attention restoration. A Facilitator Pack is available for clinicians, therapists, and guides.
Explore Sit Spot Club ↗Silent Trails
Soundscape assessment methodology piloted in collaboration with Metro Vancouver Regional Parks. Identifies and designates quiet trail corridors to protect acoustic habitat for wildlife and preserve human restorative health.
Visit silenttrails.ca ↗Super Green Robot
A solarpunk research studio exploring practical ways for humans and AI to participate responsibly in the living world. Publishes essays, field notes, benchmarks, and living laboratory prototypes that strengthen agency, care, and coexistence.
Explore Super Green Robot ↗Forest Spaces
Translating ecological science and nature connection into audio storytelling and narrative mini-dramas backed by peer-reviewed research.
Visit forestspaces.com ↗Let’s Connect
Whether you are a park agency planning acoustic trail assessments, an organization seeking an executive keynote, or a researcher exploring nature-based health data, schedule an introductory conversation.
Memberships and affiliations
Part of a wider community of practice.
Tara is a member of and connected with organizations that support nature connection, forest therapy, and access to nature-based care.
