The therapeutic and calming properties of nature, and trees in particular, have been known to mankind for centuries. Now, a new genre of therapeutic practice, called Forest Therapy, makes use of these scientifically proven benefits to provide a holistic, healing experience. Described as a way of “bathing in the forest” that invites us to deepen our connections with nature, Forest Therapy is truly a unique and extraordinary form of therapy.
1. Connecting with Nature: Unlocking the Benefits of Forest Therapy
Are you craving a connection with nature? Forest Therapy might be just what you need! Known as Shinrin-yoku (森林浴), or ‘forest bathing’, this traditional form of Japanese medicine is based on the idea that immersing yourself in nature can have a healing effect on the body and mind. Here’s how Forest Therapy unlocks nature’s therapeutic powers:
- Immersion: Spend a minimum of eight hours in the forest and let the natural smells, sounds, and sights soothe your soul. You don’t need to be an athlete – Forest Therapy is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels.
- Heightened Senses: Forest Therapy encourages you to observe mindful moments of stillness. Use all five of your senses to engage with the environment around you; see how the foliage changes as you wander deeper, listen to the the birds or an animal’s call, touch the roughness of tree bark, smell the fresh scent of pine needles and feel the sun’s warmth on your skin.
- Time To Unwind: Enjoy a leisurely pace. There’s no need to rush. The aim of the activity isn’t to rush to the highest peak, but rather to take it all in. Stop and observe, let the trails guide you.
- De-Stressing: Being surrounded by nature is an instant pick-me-up. The knowledge that you’re among trees, fauna and fresh-air reduces stress levels, calming and clearing your mind.
- Reconnecting: Nature has an incredibly inspiring power. Connect with the outdoors, feel rejuvenated and energized. Gain insight and clarity, unplug from digital distractions and reconnect with yourself.
Discover the wonders of nature with Forest Therapy. Unlock the calming benefits of the great outdoors and nurture an appreciation for the natural world around you.
2. Exploring the Healing Power of Nature
For many of us, the beauty of nature provides a profound sense of healing and renewal. Trees, grass, flowers, water—all of these elements bring us back to a feeling of safety and security. A knowing that whatever struggles we face in our day-to-day lives, nature will always be there to give us shelter and respite.
But nature does more than provide us with a place of retreat. It can also offer us a place of exploration. A chance to peel away the noise and stress of everyday life and to focus on the small moments of joy that make us feel alive. It can be the grounding point from where we look up and out and find a sense of wonder and connectedness.
By taking off our shoes and walking along a riverbank, or simply by sitting with eyes closed and feeling the sun, we can begin to experience the healing power that nature offers. These moments give us a chance to connect with the present moment in a way that encourages acceptance, compassion and gratitude. Nature can bring us back to ourselves.
In these times of increased distractions and stress, it is more important than ever to take some time to appreciate the healing benefits of nature. Here are some ways you can do that:
- Go for a walk in the park. Immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and sounds of nature.
- Take a deep breath and feel the air around you. Allow your breath to be your anchor back to the present moment.
- Listen to the birds and observe the movements of insects and small animals.
- Practice mindfulness and focus on sensations rather than thoughts and ideas.
- Lay down in the grass and stretch your body out long.
- Clap your hands and delight in the echoes of sound.
When we are able to be still, observe the wonders of nature, and just be present in the moment we can feel the healing power of nature seep into our lives and bring us joy.
3. Opening Up to the Beauty of the Forest
As we start walking through the woods, the trees overhead offer up a canopy of protective branches. Our feet rustle through the lush, leafy undergrowth and a maze of winding, woody trails crisscross our path. Even in the dimly lit depths of the forest, there is a remarkable beauty that is undeniable.
Look around you and you will find the elegant dance of the light filtering through the treetops like a directional spotlight, each of its rays cascading down into a carpet of shades from emerald greens to rich browns. The song of the birds provides a gentle musical accompaniment, filling the air with a melody of tranquility that brings a delightful sense of peace.
In the warm of the summer season, the leaves form a bright, living canopy that embraces you with its warmth and serenity. The air is thick with the fragrances of nature – an intoxicating blend of wildflowers and pines, brought alive by the rolling mist of the morning.
And as we journey through this rustic haven, we find ourselves in awe of some of the many wonders it holds:
- The mighty trunks of the towering trees that span for miles above us.
- Breathtaking view points that look out over a vast, sun-speckled landscape replicating the art of a masterful painter.
- An abundance of unique wildlife that inhabit this environment, none more so than the charismatic owls and inquisitive, singing thrushes.
We can marvel at the intricate cycles of life that play out all around us, as well as the progress of the changing seasons from the blooming of wildflowers in the spring, to the fiery show of colour that the wood is cloaked in come autumn. The forest is an ever-changing gallery of beauty, but far more than the pretty picture it presents; it is really a place to pause, a time to take a rest from the hustle and bustle of our daily lives.
So, let it draw you in; lose yourself in the majesty of the forest and be reminded of your own strengths and magnificence that you hold.
4. Reaping the Rewards of Forest Therapy
Forest therapy gives us the opportunity to nurture our physical and mental health. What better way to take advantage of this amazing resource than to reap the rewards of nature’s healing powers?
The benefits of forest therapy are rich and varied. The most obvious one is the relief of stress and anxiety we experience in nature. When we leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we open ourselves up to nature’s unique healing ability. Even a brief respite can leave us feeling replenished and calmed.
Being in nature also reduces our cortisol levels, which can reduce the risk of long-term chronic stress-related illnesses. What’s more, research suggests that people who spend at least two hours a week in nature enjoy improved mental wellbeing. And, of course, living and working close to nature can promote physical health, too.
Furthermore, forest therapy can help us reconnect with our spiritual selves. Time in nature can be a meditation for the soul, allowing us to tap into a realm of deeper awareness and understanding. Nature can help us open our hearts and minds, fostering greater connection with our true selves and our surroundings.
- Physical health — reduced cortisol levels, improved wellbeing, healthy lifestyle
- Mental health — reduced stress and anxiety, improved emotional wellbeing
- Spiritual health — reconnection with self and surroundings, deeper awareness and understanding
It’s no wonder why forest therapy is becoming such a popular pastime. Once you start , you’ll find yourself wanting to come back time and time again.
If you’re looking for a way to recharge your batteries, forest therapy may be just what the doctor ordered. For a dose of peace, stillness, and connection to nature, take a walk in the woods – and savor the restorative effects of nature’s medicine.
