Healing Through Nature - Participate in a Forest Bathing session

Lady forest bathing

Forest Bathing... no, it's not actually taking a bath in the woods. A few months ago I was asked if it was taking a bath outdoors in the woods by one of my brothers. He was somewhat joking but he, along with many others, have no idea what forest bathing or Shinrin-yoku really is. Shinrin-yoku is Japanese wording and translates roughly into "taking in the forest atmosphere". A short explanation is a person goes out into the forest , wooded area or otherwise natural space such as a secluded area in a park and immerses themselves in nature spending time walking and sitting while taking in the sights, sounds and feel of their surroundings. This can be done alone on an individual basis or with a guide leading one participant or a group. The practice of forest bathing has many mental and physical benefits all of which are backed by science.

Group enjoying a forest bathing water invitation

Benefits can Include:

• Improved mood

• Sharpened ability to focus

• Boosted immune system

• Reduced blood pressure

• Increased energy level

• Decrease in stress

• Improved sleep

• Overall sense of happiness or contentment

• Quicker recovery from surgery or illness

What to expect during a forest bathing experience:

Ceremonial Tea during forest bathing

Each forest bathing session is unique to each guide who leads and to each individual who participates. Every participant receives individual benefits from each session and has a different overall experience no matter how large the group and how closely they work together. A typical session would start with meeting and introducing each participant if a group setting, a brief overview of what the session will consist of if you have a guide and a "getting used to each other and/or the areas energies" experience. Then a guide will usually lead the group or the participant will go through several invitations focusing on different aspects of the surroundings, themselves, taking notice of all they are experiencing. Most forest bathing sessions end with a ceremonial tea and a conversation or meditation on the overall experience to close the session for every one involved.

Participate in a forest bathing session with Peaceful Wandering for a relaxing and unique experience that will stick with you for days afterword.