Shinrin Yoku (aka Forest Bathing)
Originating in Japan, Forest Bathing is a nature-based intervention that supports people to engage with nature in a structured way to improve mental health and well being.
It allows you to connect with nature in a way that is relaxing, respectful and rejuvenating. The walk helps you feel relaxed and at ease while gaining mental and physical health benefits. Research has found that exposure to nature can reduce cortisol levels, boost your immune system, balance blood pressure and can help in resetting your nervous system. Research has also found that exposure to nature decreased depression and rumination, acting as a type of “reset button” for the brain.
There is one glitch, you won’t get the same results hiking, running or mountain biking. It’s a different way of being in nature. By going out with a guide you will be shown how to tap into this simple yet powerful practice.
Once you know how to do it, you can practice it at any time, anywhere, for free, and reap the benefits yourself. Scroll down to participate in a half day forest bathing session, or inquire about our Team Building in nature program, look at the Mountain Solace for Leaders, or contact Ronna about private programs.
Why Hire a Guide?
This practice is different from hiking or going out with a naturalist. The key to getting these benefits is to slow down and tune deeply into your senses. It’s a different way of being in the forest which most people have not experienced. When you go out with a guide you learn a process that is deeply nourishing that you can then go out and do on your own any time anywhere.
Benefits from just 1 session of forest bathing include:
- Quickly reduces stress, blood pressure, heart rate
- Reduces anxiety, anger, depression and calms the nervous system
- Increases energy and restores focus and attention span
- Provides deep relaxation and a sense of ease, and increases sleep
- Increases critical thinking and decision making
- Increases Natural Killer cell activity (cancer and
tumor fighting cells increase)
- Increases creativity and intuition
- Increases feelings of awe, wonder, and gratitude
- Strengthens immune system
- Increases feelings of calm, peace, and inter-connectedness
- Fosters healthier relationships with self, others
and - Fosters healthier aging
Not bad for only 2 hours in the forest!
Rejuvenate and recharge at the summer Forest Bathing Retreats at Quantum Leaps Lodge.
September 20-22, 2024
Forest Bathing Programs
Give yourself the gift of time in nature. Science shows that spending time in the forest can reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, boost immunity, and increase your memory and ability to focus.
Forest Bathing Programs are for:
Private Group Programs
What is Forest Bathing?