Since today was Canada’s national tree day, I took the day off academic work to spend some time to appreciate our trees. We had 2 things on the to do list; Hug a tree, and go forest bathing.
What is forest bathing?
Everyone should know that being in nature makes you feel good. That’s why forest bathing, is known to help you find health and happiness. Forest bathing originates in Japan during the 1980s, when they started a national program encouraging forest bathing. It has now become a well known way to destress. Shinrin-Yoku is what a lot of people call it, which is Japanese for forest bath. Forest bathing is just being in nature, and taking in the forest with all of your senses. You’re not doing exercise, you’re just simply being there and connecting with nature.
How do I forest bathe?
First pick a space that appeals to you, make sure you don’t have any devices with you. Forest bathing is a time to be disconnected from technology so you can focus more on your surroundings. You could be in the depths of a rainforest, or even just sitting next to some trees at a park. Maybe you have a favourite spot in a forest that would be perfect for this. Use all your five senses to connect to the forest. You could watch the leaves falling from a tree, or listening to birds chirp. Feel the ground below you, smell and taste the fresh forest air. Let your body relax and be at peace. Enjoy being there, don’t worry about what you could be getting done. Mental health should be a priority.
Many people have forest bathing tours, if you want a bit more guidance. You can go on a forest therapy tour, but I suggest you try it by yourself first before you spend the money on a tour.
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.”
Albert Einstien
Today when we went forest bathing, my mom told me to think about what I want to accomplish or do in my life, then ask myself why I want to do those things. I thought about it and then thought deeper. I found this was a good exercise to dig deeper into your thoughts and goals. For example, if you really want to travel the world, ask yourself why. Could it be because you want adventure in your life? Or because you want to escape the crazy life at home? There are so many reasons, these are just examples. If you realize what you’re really searching for maybe you could do it today instead of waiting for your next trip.
I took that first photo:)
I love the idea of being cognizant of the reason you want to achieve certain goals. If you truly understand what you are looking for (ie a sense of adventure if your goal is to travel) then you can find other ways of meeting that goal. It’s really recognizing the difference between the end (goal of adventure) and the means to the end (travelling). Thanks for reminding me of that Jaida!