Forest Based Wellness
Forest based wellness is a holistic approach to personal wellness through the practise of shinrin yoku or forest bathing and embracing the health benefits of the forest in daily living.
What does the forest have to do with health and wellness?
There are many benefits to spending time outdoors and numerous studies that are helping us to better understand the relationship between humans and nature. Some studies have helped us learn about how intentional time spent in the forest can reduce stress, improve cognitive function, boost immune system function, stabilize mood, build community, and boost creativity.
To read studies and discover more about the science behind forests and our health please click to explore.
Forest Bathing
Shinrin Yoku (pronounced 'Sheen-deen yoh-koo’) is referred to as a new ancient practise. Shinrin Yoku emerged in the 1980’s and translates to english as Forest Bathing. It is a practice of mindful and intentional time spent in a forest space for health benefits.
Shinrin yoku is based on the idea that by nature we, as humans, are intended to be in nature. Modern life, technology and disconnection distract from our connection to nature and disrupts the balance of our wellbeing. Forest Bathing allows the us to rest, practise mindfullness and to connect with ourselves. During a forest bathing session the brain is able to rest from the sustained attention and stimulation in the frontal lobes, caused by technology focused, modern, urban lifestyles.
Spending time with nature is the foundation for a healthy life, and the antidote to modern stressors.
Forest Therapy
Forest Therapy, is a therapeutic practice of forest bathing led by a trained guide providing a standard flow model. This experience is designed to maximize the health and wellness benefits of forest bathing. A typical session lasts 2-4 hours consisting of sharing circles as well as personal reflective time with guided meditations in a natural setting.
Research has shown that our bodies are positively affected by trees, soil, gardens, house plants plants, essential oils from trees, even a piece of naturally dried wood in our hand. These natural things, when we are engaged in experiencing them with our senses have a measurable reduction in physiologic stress in our bodies. For this to happen, we need to be present and not distracted by our devices, fitness goals, or other factors which is why a guided experience works well for most people.
No experience or athletic ability is required. Forest Therapy is for anyone.