Forest Bathing 101

Now I know. Now I realize that Forest Bathing is a practice that helps me hear the forest whispering. Forest Bathing gives me the deep sense of 'returning to myself'. The bathing in of (or being immersed in) the atmosphere of the woodland's plants and trees, has a consistently calming effect on me. I leave with a renewed sense of peace, and wellness. Often, I find moments of awe, joy and deep connection. Sometimes I am able to work through niggling concerns that have been weighing on me, or lighten my heavy heart just a little. I'm always grateful for the time I've dedicated to doing this. Much like yoga, it's something I already kinda did, (and thought I could go along and continue on my own). It seemed straightforward enough from the articles I'd read. And just like yoga, my understanding, it's benefits, and my ability to deepen into this practice improved immensely, however, when repeatedly supported by a trained professional guide. Forest Therapy is Forest Bathing with a guide. It's an embodied, sensory immersive walk that is easier to understand once experienced. The forest is the therapist. The guide opens the door.

"...THE FOREST, IT WHISPERS TO TELL ME THAT I'M...

...COMING BACK. TO MYSELF, IF I GIVE MYSELF TIME..."

When composing lyrics for my first song seven months after starting to learn to play the guitar, I had no idea how prophetic this verse would become.