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The Art of Forest Bathing 🌳

Finding peace between the trees

By The Breatharian BloggerPublished 2 years ago 3 min read
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The Art of Forest Bathing 🌳
Photo by Lukasz Szmigiel on Unsplash

Chaos and mishaps are inevitable, and life will not always fall into place the way we planned. When things are getting overwhelming, do you often have an instinct to step outside and get some fresh air?

We are constantly reminded that life is precious and temporary when we spend time in nature. We often need to have that viewpoint to know what ultimately matters.

Did you know that being exposed to plants and greenery spaces can boost your immunity? According to several studies, researchers discovered and claimed that when people spend some time with nature— forests, recreational areas, green spaces, and other places with plenty of trees — their immune function strengthens.

One possible explanation for this is the airborne chemical substance, which is phytoncides, it is what plants emit to help defend themselves from decaying, and it seems like it is beneficial to humans as well.

By David Bruyndonckx on Unsplash

Are you familiar with Forest Bathing? You do not need any soap or bubble baths for this activity.

Forest Bathing or Shinrin-yoku, which translates to "forest bathing" or "accumulating the forest vibe," was popularized by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries in 1982 to motivate people to at least invest some time in nature.

However, this kind of bathing does not require a real bath. You don't have to go for long-distance runs or go on physically demanding hikes. The primary objective of forest bathing is to be fully aware of the present moment while immersing your senses in the scenic views and sounds of nature under the canopy of trees.

Few tips you need to know for forest bathing

This is how easy it is to connect with nature. Take your silent moment and try going for a walk.

  • Find your spot

Find a place where you can go for a quiet moment, depending on where you are. Numerous benefits for your whole system can be obtained without needing to go deeply into the woods.

Just look for any greenery field. It could be an urban park, a nature-preserved place, or a hike through the woods.

For the initial step, you only need to pay attention to where your body wants to take you. Do you want to do it in broad daylight or another way around? Listen to your inner guidance and it will lead you.

If taking a walk outside is not feasible for you, just putting some essential tree oils in the comfort of your home, this also works.

By Cristina Gottardi on Unsplash

  • Try to fully engage all your senses

All your sensory receptors are needed for the next step. Remain calm and let the good aura of nature enter through your eyes, nose, mouth, ears, and everything in between.

Listen to what nature is trying to tell you and take some time to release your feelings as well, may it be a sense of joy or sadness.

  • Take it slowly

For newbies, slow walking is advised. It's also a great idea to spend as much time as possible. You'll notice favorable impacts after a few minutes, but a longer stroll can give more positive effects. The longer your walk is, the better.

  • Try different activities

Start doing yoga in green spaces or some kind of meditation in the woods. Get your favorite healthy snacks and plan a picnic.

Compose a song or any feelings you want to express. You can do different activities that will make you feel alive and will make you calm at the same time. You have the choice of making the leap alone or with a buddy.

But are you aware that Forest walking therapists are even available in Japan? Isn't that amazing?

By Benjamin Child on Unsplash
  • Learn to appreciate the silence

Take full advantage of the quietness. Silence is therapeutic, and the sounds of a forest and wilderness can heal — from rustling leaves, the sound of water, to birds chirping.

Spend a bit of your time alone with your favorite spot. When we interact and connect with nature, we are reminded that we are only a part of a bigger whole.

We need this kind of activity to rest and realign our focus. Doing the activity results in being less self-centered and much more thoughtful with others.

One of the negatives of living in the city is the constant noise. Whatever situation you are currently facing, be kind to yourself and try out forest bathing. For a moment, take some time off from human-made noise. Heal and gain calmness by tuning in to nature.

self care
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About the Creator

The Breatharian Blogger

Here to inspire you on your journey. ✊🏾

Connect with me on IG @jromeshaw

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