Wellness in the Wild
Wellness in the Wild is an exciting new initiative rooted in the heart of Alberta’s Eastern Slopes. Our mission is to support individuals, families, and groups in strengthening physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
We develop and coordinate community-based health and wellness programs that build self-esteem, encourage healthy living, and promote holistic growth. Our approach blends immersive, nature-based experiences with the rich history and culture of Willmore Wilderness Park—creating opportunities for healing, learning, and meaningful connection.
Wellness in the Wild offers
Equine-assisted activities that build confidence, trust, and self-awareness
Guided wilderness experiences that support physical, emotional, and spiritual renewal
Talking circles and storytelling that foster understanding and connection
Cultural and historical knowledge-sharing that honours the people and places of Alberta’s Eastern Slopes
Programs led by a diverse and experienced team, including
An ACTA-registered counsellor (internationally qualified psychologist)
A Registered Nurse (College of Registered Nurses of Alberta) with extensive training in the work of Virginia Satir (“Mother of Family Therapy”)
A Certified Addictions Counsellor
A Qualified Yoga Instructor
A Certified Equine Assisted Activities Instructor
Traditional Knowledge Holders who share cultural teachings and wisdom and expertise in edible and medicinal plants.
To support and grow these programs, we also create educational and cultural media—including books, documentary films, interactive websites, and social media campaigns—designed to spark conversation, support teaching, and strengthen the healing journey.
Whether you’re seeking personal growth, stronger community ties, or the quiet peace that nature brings, Wellness in the Wild offers a unique opportunity to reconnect—with yourself, with others, and with the land.
Programs are delivered as charitable public-benefit services in health promotion and education. Where fees apply, subsidies are available—please contact the Willmore Wilderness Foundation to discuss options.
Join Bazil Leonard on an inspiring journey back into the heart of Willmore Wilderness Park, one year after a severe injury left him wondering if he would ever ride again. Western medicine mended his bones, but his healing journey didn’t end there. Working with a homeopathic doctor, a massage therapist, and a traditional medicine man, Bazil explored other approaches to healing as he rebuilt his strength, returned to working with his horses, and renewed his spirit.
In this three-part, half-hour docuseries, Bazil embraces natural remedies, the traditional use of plants, and the beauty of the Rockies as he works to heal and rebuild his body, mind, and spirit. Along the way, he shares friendships and a passion for history, culture, and knowledge that help carry him back into the wilderness.
Follow Bazil as he returns to Willmore Wilderness Park, where he works to restore historic trails and care for the park’s natural beauty. His love of horses and the mountains shines through as he shares the importance of stewardship and inspires viewers to help protect the breathtaking Rockies for future generations.
Mountain Medicine, part of Canadian Rockies Stories: Season Four, is a three-part mini-series airing on Wild TV, RFD-TV, and The Cowboy Channel.
Everyone is Welcome
Willmore Wellness is a program in development by the Willmore Wilderness Foundation, a registered Canadian charity.
Our programs are designed for public benefit—to advance health, education, and cultural understanding while preserving the heritage of Alberta’s Eastern Slopes.
We welcome:
The general public
Youth and young adults
Indigenous communities
Rural and remote residents
Elders and Senior Citizens
Fees & Subsidies
Some programs may have a fee to help cover costs. Subsidies or reduced fees are available upon request.
If cost is a barrier, please talk to us—no one is turned away due to inability to pay.
Professional Care
Any clinical or therapeutic services are delivered only by qualified, licensed professionals, following professional and ethical standards. Most of our programs are educational and wellness-focused, not medical treatment.
