Although the two words together sound like an anthropological term, Forest Bathing is a fun way to say “immersion outdoors”. We are not talking about rolling around on the ground; in fact, you don’t have to touch anything. It’s your presence that’s required. As an intentional experience, it can be a powerful stress management tool that we can all make time for. Whether you are new to the idea, or already have your own personal definition of what time spent witnessing nature can can do, here are some things to consider.
Forest Bathing is a wonderful way to have a meaningful, restorative, and intimate experience with Nature and your inner self. Most people use these opportunities to find a way to have quiet time with walking or sitting meditation or prayer.
But this is also a time to use communing with Nature where you can unwind and become part of the outdoors. Workouts in this environment absolutely count, breathing in oxygen rich air is a side effect of being near plants.
Making small observations that spark inspiration or imagination is just as important as enjoying the slow down of the environment. Watching a bug travel along, a bird sing a song, or just feeling the breeze on your skin and hearing it push through the trees is an undervalued therapeutic experience. This is especially true for persons living in an urban landscape that can be overstimulating and stressful.
I would suggest giving yourself plenty of time in your schedule to try this out. Don’t rush to your destination and don’t arrive out of breath, allow time to readjust to your new surroundings and begin to relax. Research the place you are thinking of visiting so you don’t have any surprises after you make the effort to venture out.
Locally I would suggest exploring the following places:
- Rock Creek Park
- Great Falls Park
- The National Arboretum
- Any state park in VA, MD, or areas of the Eastern Shore
There are many small green spaces tucked away throughout the city that can feel like another world. You don’t have to travel far to find a place with shade under a tree or a spot in the sun. Find a small place near you with something growing and make an effort to walk by several times a week. Instead of going to a large space, you can create a route modified with “stopping to smell the flowers” intervals.
Another common mindful activity that people often pair with these experiences is journaling or writing poetry or prose reflecting on these private experiences. Another hobby that compliments this is photography or drawing. Others take up bird watching, plant identification, hiking, or make the walks part of a fitness routine. You can also document and share your experiences to inspire new ideas and connect with other nature lovers.
Please take the time for your Spirit as we move into Springtime to get some fresh air!
