Forest Bathing

        image from: Anima Mundi

With the harmful effects of tech culture and increasing nature deprivation in Japan, Tomohide Akiyama of the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture coined the concept of shinrin-yoku, aka "forest bathing" as an antidote to rising stress levels.

Studies showed that just a few hours in the forest lowers blood pressure, improves sleep and boosts moods.

*Before you enter the woods, put away your phone and camera 

( the point is to be device-free.) 

            image by ME - must credit if use.

Tune into your body and your senses. Stay still, sitting or standing, and listen for birds, falling twigs, rushing water. Look at the different shades of green and brown or even observe how the sunlight shines on the leaves. Touch soft moss / peeling bark. Hold a rock in your hand. Close your eyes for a few minutes and inhale the aromas of the trees, leaves, and wildflowers. 

As you leave, notice how you feel and offer your appreciation to the forest and its gifts.

🙌 🙏