Do You want to Practice “shinrin-yoku”?
Come to the other side.
Imagine this moment — You are lying on a bed of green grass; you have nothing to do at this time, and you are alone here. It is a bright summer afternoon with a pleasant breeze blowing that caresses your every being. The green bed is lush and so soft. It’s a sunny day, but you are not squinting. Switch your phone off.
Look up! What do you see? — A green, majestic cover of tall trees towering overhead — a sight your soul must have longed for as if Mother Nature is carrying you in her cradle; she has your back; you are safe here, protected!
Feast your eyes with the rich green canopy above you. Now revel in the feeling that you are so loved so dearly, and close your eyes. Ssh! Relax… No mental chatter… No words, listen to the heave of your breath flowing effortlessly with the nature’s rhythm. Hear the leaves rustle, the gentle sound of a stream flowing nearby. Smell the woods, the scent of it is so grounding!! Feel the warmth…
Stay here… Now, time has stopped for you. Relax — and relax.
How do you feel? Do you like it here?
I am sure you do because all is well at this moment. You are here for a reason. Now, slowly open your eyes. Take a deep breath and thank Mother Nature for her endless showers of love. You ask for her embrace as and when you need it, and there she is, present… always!
Where were you?
A friend texted you as soon as you switched on your phone. And you answered, “ I was practicing shinrin-yoku.”
What is shinrin-yoku?
Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese term for Forest Bathing, which refers to the therapeutic effects nature has on us when we allow it to take over our senses. It has been known to have numerous health benefits and has been in place since the 1980s.
Dr. Quing Li explains the various health benefits of forest bathing in her book: Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness.
There are, apparently, trained forest therapists in Japan, where people can book a day retreat and sign up for guided walks, according to Dr. Li.
I would so love to go there some day! But for now, I will practice the shinrin-yoku as my mother nature guides me.
How about you?
