Forest Bathing

This past weekend my husband and I went Forest Bathing.  Forest Bathing is a centuries old mindfulness practice coined by the Japanese as Shrinrin-Yoku.  It is a contemplative experience of using the five senses to immerse yourself into the surroundings of nature.  It is a way to honor nature as a healing entity. Forest bathing pays tribute to the elements of earth, water, fire, air, and space.  Science has proven that nature lowers cortisol levels and decreases blood pressure. In addition, it reduces stress, boosts the immune system, and improves mood. It also decreases inflammation and increases energy and the improves clarity and focus.

Forest bathing benefits our health, but allows us a deep communication with the earth and its plants and creatures. Many of us are distracted by the modern world and all of its technologies and creature comforts.  Forest bathing allows us a dedicated time to reconnect with humanities original way of living in relationship with the earth. It is an opportunity to give gratitude to the indigenous people. As well as a time to reflect on the history of those that have walked this earth before us. 

The Process

My experience was in the Bankhead National Forest in Northwest Alabama with WildAL.org.  This was a day long practice of forest bathing in which we took a short hike into the woods to connect with nature. We were not allowed to bring cell phones, watches, or other devices. We practiced functional speaking throughout the day, only speaking when necessary, or when asked to speak during group discussion.

After a short hike into the woods, we were led through a guided meditation to connect with our senses in relation to the environment. Each section of the day is broken up into focus on a particular part of nature; trees, water, stone, and sky. After each invitation, we came together as a group and are asked, “What did you notice during quiet reflection?”  It was an opportunity to speak on the information you had gathered and your introspection of the experience.  I enjoyed hearing others interpretations of their reflections and it made the experience even more profound for me.

I chose to keep a journal of my thoughts, observations, and experiences when tapping into the nature of each focus exercise and felt it helped me organize my contemplation. Remembering the details of this experience for later reflection was important to me.  Without the use of my cell phone, I couldn’t take pictures of the beauty I was seeing, as I normally would.

My Experience

After my day of forest bathing, I felt a profound peacefulness. I noticed that I didn’t think about anything in particular during the experience, nor did I worry or fret.  The woods are often intimidating to me. There is always some sense of fear of ticks and snakes, poison ivy, and other dangerous things. With forest bathing I seemed to have a sense of awareness of my surroundings without distress.

This calm would continue on the drive home, not getting worked up over traffic, or distracted drivers. My food tasted more flavorful and I ate more mindfully and slowly, savoring the taste.  I had no desire to look at my phone and kept it on silent the rest of the day.  I also was very sleepy and went to bed early, sleeping a full 8 hours before waking. My whole body, mind and spirit seemed to appreciate the break from stimulation and devices. I would highly recommend this practice! I plan to put it on my calendar and make time for this type of meditation in my life from here on out. The best part is, I have a forest in my backyard so there will be no excuses!

Waterfalls

Waterfall Yoga Therapy is home to 20 acres of nature, including a waterfall, and will now be offering Forest Bathing as part of the retreat programs. In addition, the feature of a natural waterfall brings you even more added benefits on your forest bathing experience! Waterfalls are known to have a high concentration of negative ions.  As you breathe in negative ions, you improve immune function, digestion and metabolism, blood pressure, as well as improve mood and sleep!  Waterfalls are scientifically proven to increase serotonin levels, a very important mood chemical that helps to relieve stress, alleviate depression and boost energy. 

The soothing sound of a waterfall creates white noise which helps to quiet the mind and calm the body. Science backs up this idea that the sound of running water affects the rhythm of neuronal waves in the brain that encourage peace of mind.  

The temperature of the water is often very cold regardless of the season. When immersing yourself in the cold water you increase circulation.  The blood vessels in the emerged parts of the body narrow. They send blood to the organs allowing them to gather more oxygen and nutrients. Emerging from the cold, the blood vessels expand and the oxygen and nutrient enriched blood pumps back into your tissues. This helps to remove lactic acid and decrease inflammation. 

Your Opportunity to Forest Bathe

With the combined efforts of a short hike, a waterfall, the forest, and your senses you will feel a subtle awakening, a shift in perspective, and a improvement in your health and healing. Join me for our next retreat. Or schedule your own intimate boutique retreat for yourself, you and your partner, or your favorite people by getting your quote.

Not ready for a retreat? Retreat into nature with me through guided meditation on Insight Timer here.