Something New Something Old

I realize that just introducing the idea of Forest Bathing (shinrin-yoku) to my intended audience will likely induce groans and eye rolling.  Knowing that, I’ll keep this short and save lengthier efforts for other topics.  But, if you have made it this far, all I ask is that you stick with me, entertain the idea openly, and try your own version of this when possible.  You never know, it might fit well in your wellness tool kit.

Forest Bathing apparently originated in Japan.  The idea is fairly straightforward and was brought to my attention by an astute coworker not long ago.  Although many of us have recognized for years that time spent outside and especially in the woods made us feel better, there has been a rising body of scientific evidence supporting the idea and indicating that time in the woods exceeding twenty minutes reduces symptoms of depression, reduces anxiety, lowers cortisol, lowers stress, lowers blood pressure and increased an overall sense of wellness.  The Japanese built on that science and began leading quiet guided walks in the forest that included a picturesque, quiet and secluded resting point.  Here, the person engaging in ”bathing” would pause, and meditate quietly while taking in the sights, sounds and smells of the forest.  Participants report at minimum a feeling of relaxation and, when everything comes together heightened sense of wellness with the measurable effects mentioned above.

Recently while visiting Alaska, I had the opportunity to hike in the Tongass National Forest.  This great expanse of temperate rain forest includes a small, picturesque lake in the middle of what used to be a heavily logged area called Talbot Lake.  After about two miles of easy hiking down a two-rut road surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Alaskan wilderness while our guide narrated the hike, we reached this breathtaking gem.  The small group that I was with seemed to recognize that we were somewhere special and while our attentive guides bustled about preparing a fire and some hot chocolate, we quietly soaked in the stunning vision of the glassy lake and mist covered mountains.  While we basked in the visually stunning landscape, we were serenaded by cheerful songbirds who were undeterred by the cool, damp morning.  I sat on a stump of local Sitka Spruce and just breathed and listened.  Already relaxed from the serene and supremely stunning hike there, I purposefully slowed my breathing and cleared my mind.  As I did so, I became aware of everything slowing and quieting.  Finally, all I heard was the quiet chatter of my fellow hikers, the chittering of the songbirds, and I was completely and absolutely quiet and at peace. 

I’m including some photos of the lake and surrounding rain forest.  The landscape was staggeringly beautiful and serene and I seriously doubt any photograph will come close to doing it justice.  

I heartily encourage all to find a friend and find an hour or so to take to some woods near you.  Disconnect from your daily life.  Turn your phone off, ignore email for a few minutes, leave social media behind long enough to actually disconnect briefly and go “bathe” in what God has generously placed all around us.  Attempt to find a companion for your walk who can quietly narrate your walk, but who understands why you are there and will allow you to sit quietly when you reach your destination.  If you can practice rhythmic breathing and meditate once you reach your serene destination…even better.  Forest Bathing may not be for everyone, but it works and is a readily available tool for most.  It is also simple and straightforward.  And, best of all, it is accessible to most people regardless of where you live or what your income is.  If you go, be safe, be prepared (sunscreen, insect repellant etc.) and be well. 

See also National Library of Medicine study 2010