avatarRhonda Carrier

Summary

An elderly couple shares their experience of forest bathing and the mental and physical benefits they derive from leisurely bike rides through the natural ecosystems of central Florida, emphasizing the beauty and tranquility of the "green cathedral" they ride through.

Abstract

The authors, an older couple, describe their routine of cycling through forested trails in central Florida, detailing the sensory experiences and peace they find in the natural environment. They emphasize the importance of appreciating the surroundings, such as the trees, birds, butterflies, and sounds of nature, while engaging in physical activity at a comfortable pace. The concept of "forest bathing," or Shinrin-Yoku, is highlighted as a practice that offers scientifically supported health benefits. The couple encourages others to seek out similar experiences, whether by bike or on foot, to enjoy the mental and physical rejuvenation that comes from immersing oneself in nature. They also provide links to additional readings on the subject, including their own articles on Medium.

Opinions

  • The authors express a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of forested areas, which they liken to a "green cathedral."
  • They advocate for the benefits of slow, mindful cycling as a means to connect with nature and maintain physical health, even in their 70s.
  • The couple values the sensory experiences of bird watching, listening to insects, and feeling the breeze during their rides.
  • They believe in the restorative power of forests and promote the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, or forest bathing, citing its scientific backing.
  • The authors suggest that these outdoor experiences are enhanced when shared with family members, such as a spouse, child, or grandchild.
  • They encourage readers to actively seek out and create their own experiences in nature, emphasizing that one doesn't need to be near a forest to benefit from its calming effects.

In A Green Cathedral

Another 10 Word Story Challenge

“I know a green cathedral

where leaves join hands above.”

In a Green Cathedral (Photo by Rhonda Carrier)

Backstory: We ride at least 5 days a week. Happily, we live in central Florida where there are many well-maintained bike trails. Florida is hot and humid, but it is relatively flat, so we are comfortable riding regular bicycles, not electric bikes, even though we are in our 70s. We do have gears, but only 7, which seems enough for us. We prefer bikes that allow us to sit up fairly straight to reduce the pressure on our backs. We ride at our comfortable speed letting younger riders whiz past us on the trail. We are getting exercise, but our slower speed allows us more time to appreciate our ride through the forest.

A Saturday on the bike trail (photo by Gerad Carrier)

Our favorite rides are in the shadows of the trees along forested trails. Forested means trees growing in their natural ecosystem habitats. Our ride today was 11 miles long (17.1 KM). It was hot, humid, and overcast with threatening rain clouds. What mattered was that we were riding while surrounded by trees in their natural ecosystem. Birds darted from tree to tree, butterflies sipped on flowers, and cicadas sang a never-ending song throughout the ride.

As often happens when we are on this bike trail, a song from my childhood went through my head. I have loved the song since I sang it in a choir in 9th grade, many, many years ago. Here is a link to it on YouTube with images to support the song. I Know a Green Cathedral. It defines my love for walking and riding through forest areas. (Lyrics)

Get out your bike to go for a ride, or go for a walk. Ask your spouse, child, or grandchild to go with you, or go alone. Look for a Green Cathedral. Appreciate the forest shadows and leaves joined above as you go through the forest. Listen to the birds. Look for butterflies. Listen to the insects. Feel the breeze. Breathe. Relax. Be Mindful of where you are. Just go. Enjoy.

By bike or by foot. In groups or alone. Just go. (Photos by Rhonda Carrier)
My granddaughter watches the birds in the trees on one of our evening walks. (Photo by Rhonda Carrier)

I’ve written about the benefits of forest bathing and of forest bathing on a bike.

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Nature
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