Have you ever been forest bathing? It is a practice I feel is needed now more than ever. 

Simply put, forest bathing is a mindful practice of immersing yourself in nature by engaging all your senses and connecting with all beings, including yourself.

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Forest bathing or forest therapy is a slow and mindful walk amongst the trees. An opportunity to get out of the intellect and connect with nature using the senses. To simply be immersed in nature as you are guided to walk mindfully in the present moment. As the guide, I will offer an opening meditation to settle in, followed by invitations to explore the forest and closing the experience with a tea circle.

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There are many health benefits that have been scientifically studied since this practice originated in Japan in the 1980’s. You might have heard of Shinrin-yoku? Which translates to “bathing in the forest atmosphere.” And where the term forest bathing comes from. Studies have shown the benefits of being mindfully present in the forest; lowered cortisol, decreased stress, healthy measures of blood pressure and heart rate, mood boosting. There is data showing increase in natural killer cells which boost our immunity from breathing in the aromatic, volatile chemical compounds (phytoncides) released by the trees, especially the pines. Another benefit to forest bathing is the connection to nature, to the Earth. This bond is formed and deepened with our intimate experiences with the land. We care for what we pay attention to.

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On a forest bathing walk, as a certified forest therapy guide, I'll invite you into a series of carefully-crafted sensory experiences designed to bring you into the present moment, reduce stress, and connect you with nature in a deeper way than ever before.