Wellbeing through nature connection.

Forest bathing, also referred to as forest therapy, is derived from the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku. It is a practice that one can incorporate into their lifestyle to promote and enhance both physical and mental well-being. Forest bathing consists of a gentle walk through a natural landscape in which sensory exploration is encouraged. 

Japan in the 1980s was in the midst of rapid change. Vast population shifts were occurring from rural to urban communities. and a technology boom was well underway. Workplace productivity was a priority for many. This was not without consequences. Simultaneously, certain human health disease rates were increasing. In particular, auto-immune disease diagnoses were on the rise. Perhaps more concerning, was an ailment referred to as Karoshi Syndrome, "death by overwork". An unsustainable work culture consisting of intense pressure, uncompromising schedules, and near non-existent work-life balance were contributing to extreme stress. Furthermore, in neglecting essential and basic physiological needs of the human body such as adequate rest, sleep and nourishment fatal outcomes were occurring in the form of cerebrovascular, cardiovascular and mental health casualties. 

Needless to say, an epidemic of sorts was unfolding. What could be done? One solution was devised by the head of Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. A seemingly simple solution to invite city dwellers and the overworked back into the forest.  A scientific approach was implemented. While immersing themselves in nature, participants would engage in research-based practices measuring heart rate, blood pressure and salivary cortisol levels. The evidence of the efficacy in promoting well-being would eventually lead to the designations of over 60 forest bathing destinations in Japan. While the country continues to battle Karoshi Syndrome, forest bathing is a step in the right direction and an intervention that other societies and communities can adapt in the wake of similar workplace culture shifts. 

In the U.S. forest bathing is increasing in popularity and gaining leverage as a tool to support individual physical and mental health. There is still a long way to go and much advancement that can be made in how the practice is implemented at the system level and in acknowledging how this lifestyle practice can improve well-being. The practice of forest bathing in the states take a less scientific approach and has been adapted as more of a mindfulness practice. If you have heard of mindful eating, you have a general idea of what forest bathing might look like. 

Forest bathing provides an experience in which participants are allowed to slow down and be fully present. To promote this, participants are invited to engage in simple sensory exploration through 'invitations' offered by a certified guide. These invitations are given over the course of two to three hours while partaking in a slow, gentle walk through a nature-scape. The practice is not limited to the forest, with the ability for the guide to adapt to landscapes from the prairie to an arboretum. 

Against our evolutionary history, we have become a society that spends, on average, 90% of our time indoors. While we are in fact sensory beings, evolved over millions of years using our senses of sight, smell, touch, sound and taste to learn about our surroundings and adapt our ways of living to not only survive but thrive. Forest bathing allows for the reawakening of our sensory bodies. Allows for us to reconnect with nature. During the process of reintroducing our brains and bodies to the sensory world and to the natural world we in turn receive therapeutic benefits. Improving our mental well-being as we decrease feelings of stress and anxiety, ruminate less and even become friendlier. Physically, blood pressure can be lowered, heart rate reduced and it has even been show that forest bathing can boost your immune system. 

The benefits of forest bathing continue to unfold but why wait to experience them for yourself. Join me for a prescheduled walk on the 'Events' page or contact me for scheduling a private individual or group event