I am a published writer, and spiritual director with a Masters degree in Psychotherapy from the University of Cambridge, UK where my research dissertation was on the practice of taking therapy outdoors. I was awarded an honors for my Masters dissertation—an exploration of practicing therapy with the natural world in mind; a narrative inquiry. I continue to be immersed in learning and research opportunities with particular attention to EcoSpiritual Direction.

As a spiritual director I accompany others in writing short narratives of their ecological stories. By this I mean inviting participants into a process of remembering from their earliest years, through to their teens and on into adult life. Attuning to stories of growing up in a rural or urban environment or both. To picture these stories in the imagination of one's mind. To wonder how one might have embodied the feelings that hold these stories. What is the sensorial impact then and now? In the spirit of curiosity to ponder on how these experiences have both informed and influenced your environmental understandings as you have moved through life.

I lead EcoSpiritual Direction sessions as well as Nature Connecting Activities for retreats. Connecting in nature is a form of communion where the moments of wonder can be truly transformative—to feel the texture of the moss on a tree. Dip your hand in a nearby running creek. Listen into the soundscape. To quite simply pay attention to what you notice. Encounters with nature accompanied by a facilitator can move people towards opportunities for self-reflection and moments of heightened awareness. These embodied connections can be strengthened where they offer lessons in interconnection, diversity and impermanence.

As an alum of the Pacific Jubilee Program and a current member of Spiritual Directors International I continue to be informed and learn from an array of resources through Pacific Jubilee, the Vancouver School of Theology, St Dunstan’s Center for Spiritual Renewal and Spiritual Directors International.

I am a Christian contemplative whose practice as a spiritual director is fostered by the notion that when a person feels deeply listened to, it follows that they have the sensation of being understood. My practice of spiritual accompaniment is grounded in the qualities of time and attention, deep listening, and sacred conversation. When we give another our time and full attention things happen. It opens us up to possibilities for experiencing transformational change.

Christianity is my spiritual holding although it is important to know that this does not limit my understanding of other faith traditions and how I continue to be enriched by them. However you may experience the Holy, I invite you to reach out and connect with me.

Canadian born, I live in Bragg Creek, close to Calgary, Alberta where I integrate my love of story writing and inquiry with my love for food, psychotherapy, spiritual direction and nature connecting activities to guide others towards new levels of inner and outer awareness.

I am available for spiritual accompaniment in person, on zoom or by phone.

Contact Information
Bragg Creek, Alberta
Phone: 778 918 4796
Website: sarahlyonspiritualdirection.com

email sarah