Somewhat Silent Sunday: Virtual Forest Bathing, #SOL20, Day 29/ Year 3

As I explained last week, my usual Sunday posts only contain photographs with or without captions. But, since this month I am writing as part of a writing challenge, I have been prefacing my photos with some text.

Last year from late January until early October, I served as the Outreach and Education Program Manager for a local Land Trust. During that period of time, there were many, many events for which I had to organize, lead and network for regarding event speakers and volunteers. One such event was our Nature Bathing Hike. This was held at one of the Conservancy properties on a wet spring day, similar to today. The leader, after doing some research and placing calls, was found at our local university through a suggestion by another leader who conducted an event on nature writing for us.  Apparently, they knew each other through their love of writing about nature.

It was the first time I had participated in such an event, so I was curious as to how it would go. Both the leader and the event were awesome! Nature Bathing or Forest Bathing allows one to slow down and notice the nature that surrounds us. Trees, twigs, buds, streams, become visually important for the details one notices by just stopping and paying attention to them. Sounds, such as bird song, babbling creeks, distant traffic or trains are as prevalent or diminished as you wish them to be. Tune in to the water rushing over the pebbles in the creek or the rustle of a creature scampering away in the undergrowth. It allows one to slow and center by being one with nature. It is meditative and relaxing. You could feel your worries and stress melt away!

It was one of the best experiences I had during my short tenure with the Conservancy. And, the dozen or so participants enjoyed it as well! If you have a chance to take a Forest Bathing or Nature Bathing Hike/Walk, I would highly recommend it. In celebration of Nature, today’s Somewhat Silent Sunday will offer some photography featuring forest trails.

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13 thoughts

  1. I try to spend a lot of time in the woods. Now that I have moved I need to find new woods! I usually go to the national lakeshore trails. Thanks for all the pictures.

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      2. It’s terrible!! I get to the point where I kind of throw up my hands (figuratively) and just need to be done! I never did find the photo I really wanted to post – and then I found it yesterday without even looking!

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  4. I’ve never heard the term Nature/Forest Bathing but love the image in conjours. My next walk in the park will have me slowing down as it’s the closest thing I have to ‘the woods’. 🙂

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    1. Forest Bathing is actually a Japanese practice that involves some very specific meditation practices. It really calms the soul and slows one down to appreciate the nuances of nature. My second experiece with it was led (it is usually led by someone trained in the practice), by the Korean Minister of Forestery who visited our local university and led a group late last summer. If you ever have a chance to attend such an event, I would highly recommend it. Take care!

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      2. Local universities, extension offices, and park and rec departments would be a great place to start! There are tons of books on Amazon that describe the practice – If you search Forest Bathing. I am reaching out to the person who led our hike – she had a couple of book recommendations that I cannot remember right now. I’d actually like to read one! Good Luck!

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