5 Peaceful Places in Sandpoint to Visit After a Brainspotting Therapy Session

The Power of Brainspotting Therapy

Brainspotting therapy is an incredibly powerful tool for healing trauma. It works by helping your brain and body process deeply stored emotional wounds, even ones you may not be fully aware of. Brainspotting therapy taps into the nervous system, allowing it to release trauma in a way that talking alone often cannot.

I remember my first brainspotting session—it was intense but not scary. My brain felt calm and curious while my body did its own thing, processing and releasing stored trauma. Memories and emotions surfaced, but what stood out the most was how much movement my body needed to do to heal. When it was done, I felt heavy and tired. The next day, I was utterly exhausted. I knew I needed time to rest, to let my body recover without pressure or expectation.

This is where self-care becomes essential. Our bodies need time to recover when we go through deep healing work like brainspotting. Just like a strenuous workout, emotional healing takes a toll. Practicing self-care helps us integrate the therapy session, recharge our energy, and nurture our nervous system as it continues to heal. If you're in Sandpoint, Idaho, there are incredible places to practice self-care after your session. Let’s explore five peaceful spots to help you reset and restore your body and mind.

1. Pine Street Woods

Pine Street Woods is a calming, forested retreat close to town. It’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature and let your nervous system settle after a Brainspotting therapy session. Walking around the endless amount of trail through the trees, you’ll hear the soft rustling of the wind through the branches and the occasional chirping of birds. The trails here are gentle and welcoming, making moving at your own pace easy.

Why is this place so great for self-care? Because movement is one of the best ways to help your body process emotions. A slow walk through the woods encourages your nervous system to regulate, allowing your body to integrate the work it just did in therapy. Plus, fresh air and natural scenery have a calming effect on the brain, reducing stress and promoting inner peace.

2. Gold Hill

Gold Hill is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a spot with breathtaking views and a chance to reflect. This moderate hike leads you up a scenic trail, with glimpses of Lake Pend Oreille through the trees. The trail culminates in a stunning overlook of the beautiful water, the long bridge separating Lake Pend Oreille from the Pend Oreille River, and the surrounding mountains.

After a Brainspotting therapy session, you might feel a mix of emotions—relief, exhaustion, or even overwhelm. Sitting at the top of Gold Hill, overlooking the beauty of Sandpoint, can provide an opportunity for you to be still with your emotions. There’s something incredibly grounding about being in a high place, looking out over the world. It reminds us that we are part of something bigger and that healing is a journey, not a destination. Take deep breaths, let the wind brush against your skin, and allow yourself to simply be.

3. The Bay Trail

The Bay Trail is an excellent self-care spot for those who love being near the water. This easy, flat trail runs along the shoreline of Lake Pend Oreille, offering stunning views of the water and mountains. There’s something deeply soothing about being near water—the rhythmic sound of waves, the way the sunlight reflects on the surface, and the sense of openness all contribute to a feeling of calm.

Walking along the Bay Trail after a Brainspotting therapy session can help you gently process your emotions. Whether you are looking for a quiet space to sit and meditate or a slow, mindful walk to help release any lingering tension, the Bay Trail offers a calming place to do so while experiencing the beautiful sounds of nature. 

4. Schweitzer Mountain Resort

If you’re craving a more profound escape into nature, head up to Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Even outside of ski season, this mountain offers a peaceful retreat from the busyness of everyday life. You can take the scenic chairlift ride to the top, enjoy a leisurely hike, or simply sit and enjoy the panoramic views.

Being in the mountains can be incredibly healing. The higher altitude, the crisp air, and the stillness of the surroundings help quiet an overactive mind and soothe a stressed nervous system. If you’re feeling emotionally raw after your therapy session, spending time on the mountain can help you feel grounded again. Schweitzer’s slower pace and lack of distractions create a perfect environment for rest and reflection.

5. City Beach

Sometimes, the best form of self-care is simply allowing yourself to relax. The City Beach in Sandpoint is a great place to do just that. Whether you want to sit in the sand, dip your feet in the water, or watch the sunset over the lake, this spot offers a peaceful space to unwind.

After an intense Brainspotting therapy session, your body might crave stillness. Laying on a towel in the sun, feeling the warmth on your skin, and listening to the gentle sounds of the lake can help your nervous system settle. If you feel up to it, a slow walk along the shoreline or some light stretching in the grass can help your body feel more at ease. The key is to listen to what you need—rest, movement, or quiet contemplation.

The Importance of Self-Care for Brainspotting Therapy

Self-care is vital when doing deep healing trauma work like brainspotting. When we process trauma, our nervous system works hard to release stored energy and emotions. Without proper rest and recovery, we risk becoming overwhelmed, fatigued, or even retraumatized.

Taking time to care for yourself after a therapy session gives your body what it needs to integrate the healing fully. Whether it’s a quiet walk in the woods, a reflective moment on a mountaintop, or a peaceful afternoon by the lake, these self-care activities help your nervous system reset.

Healing is a journey; every step you take toward caring for yourself brings you closer to peace, resilience, and well-being. If you’ve just had a brainspotting session, consider visiting one of these beautiful spots in Sandpoint. Your body and mind will thank you.

If you’re ready to let go of the pain holding you back, I’m here to help. As a Brainspotting therapist, I specialize in helping women heal from deep-seated trauma and self-doubt.

Reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation. Let’s take the first step toward healing together.

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Jarae Swanstrom is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor practicing online throughout Idaho. She believes in a holistic approach to therapy, focusing on healing the whole body. Jarae helps women heal trauma, disordered eating, and negative body image. Learn more about Jarae or schedule a free consultation at mountainrivertherapy.com.