Forest Bathing – Connection with the Earth – April 21st

For this Forest Bathing walk heading into Earth Day weekend, give the Earth the gift of your presence and attention. Deepen your relationship with the living world and remember you belonging to nature and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Simply put, Forest Bathing is a mindful practice of immersing yourself in nature by engaging all your senses and connecting with all beings, including yourself.

Forest Therapy or Forest Bathing is a slow and mindful walk amongst the trees. An opportunity to get out of the intellect and connect with nature using the senses. To simply be immersed in nature as you are guided to walk mindfully in the present moment. Your guide, Monica will offer an opening meditation to settle in, followed by invitations to explore the Forest and closing the experience with a tea circle.

There are many health benefits that have been scientifically studied since this practice originated in Japan in the 1980’s. You might have heard of Shinrin-yoku? Which translates to “bathing in the forest atmosphere.” And where the term Forest Bathing comes from. Studies have shown the benefits of being mindfully present in the forest; lowered cortisol, decreased stress, healthy measures of blood pressure and heart rate, mood boosting. There is data showing increase in natural killer cells which boost our immunity from breathing in the aromatic, volatile chemical compounds (phytoncides) released by the trees. And another benefit to Forest Bathing is the connection to nature, to the Earth. This bond is formed and deepened with our intimate experiences with the land. And we care for what we pay attention to.

Monica Mendoza is a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy guides and programs (ANFT). Monica’s passion is bringing people of all ages into a place of stillness, where connection with the natural world can be made from that deeper place.

Investment / Energy Exchange: $35.00 per person

• Bring layers. Your body temperature can definitely cool down so be prepared with heavier layers
• Long pants and long socks.
• Closed toed shoes
• Water
• Light snack
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Insect Repellant
• Journal – If you like journaling. Not required
• You will be offered a sit pad. You however can bring a camp chair if you’d like.