What's the first image that comes to mind when I say, "Forest Bathing"?
Outdoor showers at a swanky resort spa? The Viagra couple in side by side outdoor tubs? Nudists cavorting through sylvan streams?
Oooo, sorry! None of the above! Although, here in BC, any one of those sights would surprise no one.
It does involve forests, but the "bathing" part is a metaphor for soaking in the therapeutic effects that woodlands dispense if you are inclined to absorb them.
Forest Bathing is the western term for the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku — a form of therapy that is catching on here in the wet coast Rain Forest. And why not? We BCers have long been known for embracing health trends in self-care. And forests we got. There are even courses and guided sessions available to enrich your forest experience. Do I hear you snickering? Laugh not! Forest Bathing is not the sole domain of Eco Nuts and Hippy Tree Huggers.
You might be thinking, "I already commune with nature! That's the whole point of going on a hike, isn't it?" Ah, but, Forest Bathing is not hiking. Reaching a destination is not the goal. Think of it rather as a walk in the woods, with meditation, and pine aromatherapy. The point is mindfulness — truly connecting with nature through slow, deliberate exercises to become still and aware. Absorbing the surroundings with all your senses.
You don't even have to amble deep into the woods to achieve inner peace. All it takes is being immersed in a green glade. Which makes it perfect for those of us with, you know, bad knees who don't amble very far from the nature trail parking lot.
Sure, anybody can do it. But, is everybody suited for it? Me, for example? Not so much.
Oh, I am "mindful" in forest settings. Mindful of DANGER. Being surrounded by trees makes me very nervous. "What was that noise? Was that a bear? What is there is a cougar? How long is this trail anyway? Does this loop back? Are we lost? We're lost! I didn't bring trail mix!" All quite counterproductive to achieving calm.
Close my eyes to meditate? In a forest? Not for a second! That would be the exact moment the Big Bad Wolf or an axe murderer would leap out from behind a Douglas Fir. I might be able to handle Forest Bathing if I could do it from the above mentioned outdoor bath tub at a swanky resort.
So, the next time you're out there on a wooded path with your arms wrapped around a 400 year old cedar, and a mountain lion eats you for lunch, don't say I didn't warn you. Otherwise, may you find bliss with your forest therapy.
Namaste.
