Build Deeper Connections with Nature this Earth Month
Shinrin-yoku, the practice translated as Forest Bathing, is an activity that invites us to slow down and really connect with nature, the experience that connects us all. It became popular in Japan in the 1980’s during the technology boom. With people working in buildings and cities, the Japanese noticed that people were not healthy and becoming sicker. They started creating places in nature and paid for workers to go out and reconnect with nature. There is plenty of research now that shows that being in nature helps regulate our mind and body connection, boosting our immune systems, and is an integral part of lifestyle medicine.
“Humans instinctively know that when we’re in nature, and we can slow down enough to use our sensory systems, we feel healthier and happier,” Martha says.
Forest bathing is not hiking but the intentional act of slowing down in nature. It starts with the breath, closing your eyes, listening to the sounds around you, acknowledging those who have been on the land before you, and honoring the wildlife, plants, and organisms that call the forest home.
It invites you to notice the smaller natural details like the fungus calling a decaying log home and other parts of the natural world often passed over without a second thought. Walking through the forest like a camera and taking “snapshots” with your eyes to refocus your sight. Continuing, one could consider opening to a possible “treasure” just for you:. Being present and allowing what that word “treasure” means to you on your journey through the forest.
“For me, as I age and move into Elder work, it’s nature and the interwoven experience of being in the awesomeness of this relationship. What is our relationship with the natural world? How can we be kinder, more generous, and have a creative connection? How can we translate that into human connection as well as care for the Land?” Martha shares. “It’s sort of like breathing or eating. The need to return to the chemistry and energy of the forest and the trees. We miss so much when we are hiking and talking. Forest bathing invites us to be present and momentarily step away from the busyness of our lives. It allows us to open our hearts and minds which is truly healing.”
As DALC celebrates Earth Month and the incredible work our community is doing to protect the land, we invite you to explore some of these practices and enjoy an intentional connection at any of our nature preserves or Driftless Trail segments.
You don’t need to go with a guide to experience the benefits of forest bathing, however, if you are interested in connecting with Martha you can learn more at marthayork12@gmail.com.
Martha York, DALC supporter, trained in the lineage of Shinrin-yoku, a form of Japanese Forest Therapy.