The Joy of Forest Bathing

Nature is not just a place to feel the awe of the universe and creation. Nature is a human right.

Early morning nature resets circadian rhythm. Nature gives us a sense of place. Humans find resilience through the incorporation of natural beauty in their lives.

A walk in the forest is exercise, improving balance, muscle strength, heart health, and circulation. It lowers cholesterol, blood glucose, and blood pressure.

Listening to birdsong may help your mood. You hear more complex birdsong in the forest. A study found that listening to audio clips of birdsong for as short as 6 minutes reduces anxiety, depression, and paranoia in healthy participants.

In the Japanese practice of “forest bathing” (immersion in the forest), the forest bather walks quietly through forest landscapes, concentrating on the energy of nature, and is rewarded with an opportunity for reflection, a boost in positive energy, and a revived sense of wellness.

Try forest bathing:

Take a few deep breaths and center yourself. Focus on what your senses are taking in. Are there new scents or birds that you haven’t heard before?
Simply look at your surroundings. Sit and watch how the trees sway in the wind or walk at an easy pace without a specific destination in mind.
Let your mind and senses explore the environment. Observe close and far, and listen to the birds, other creatures, and trees. Look for the patterns and texture of leaves, tree bark, and insects, and for patterns in the distance.
Look for the patterns and textures of leaves, tree bark, and insects, as well as patterns in the distance.
Look for moments that make you feel amazement or awe. Look with fresh eyes or take a new walking path to renew the awe experience.

Jackie and Sherri Mixon share their daily, and spiritual, relationship with birds.