You’re familiar with the words “forest” and “bathing,” but how about when you combine them? Developed in Japan during the 1980s, forest bathing (or “shinrin-yoku”) is more than just meandering through the woods; it’s an immersive experience where you consciously take in the sights, sounds + smells of the forest. I (Editor Brook) just went forest bathing with local Association of Nature & Forest Therapy certified guide Kelly Bruce of Asheville Wellness Tours, and I want to share the scoop with you.
It’s not about doing anything strenuous or getting your heart rate up — rather, the point is to slow down and fully experience in your own individual way what the forest has to offer. DYK that the average American spends 93% of their time indoors? That makes time in nature even more vital to our efforts to slow down, be more present, and literally unplug from technology.
Forest bathing offers real health benefits, including reduced stress, improved mental clarity + boosted immune function. This is due to phytoncides, natural chemicals secreted by trees + plants which help protect them from germs and insects. Exposure to phytoncides bolsters the body’s innate immune system, its first line of defense against infection.
When I went, I arrived at an undisclosed spot in WNC and met the group I’d be with for the next ≈ three, blissed-out hours. With Kelly’s help, we wandered along, stopping every so often for invitations designed to maximize being present and deepen our connection with nature.
Along the way, I discovered that I was really drawn to the sounds of the river, and I delighted in touching and admiring the brilliant green moss along trees and forest floor. Just being left me relaxed + rejuvenated — a rare feat for a parent — and I felt full of gratitude for WNC’s plethora of restorative natural spaces.
Maybe the best thing about forest bathing? There is no right or wrong way to do it. It can be done any time of the day or in any season, just find a spot you like that has trees and go slowly and intentionally experience it with your senses. Fortunately, though, if you want some expert assistance, there are additional highly trained practitioners working here in the 828, including Dr. Mattie Decker with Conserving Carolina and Kathleen Forrest of Authentic Offerings.
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