I recently started reading a wonderful blog Be More with Less. I have been enjoying the writer, Courtney's insights and just by happenstance she released a blog called "Forest Bathing: 5 simple ways to stress less and smile more." If I am being honest, I really dislike naming things like Forest Bathing. It just seems like something else we are trying to attach a catchy name to. However, I do like the principle. The idea of walking on a trail in the woods, park or just your backyard is a beautiful way to reconnect to yourself and nature. Although, I am not a fan of bugs and snakes so I may not be as relax and mindful as I could be.
“There is pleasure in the pathless woods, there is rapture in the lonely shore, there is society where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar; I love not Man the less, but Nature more.
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It is special when we take a moment to truly absorb and appreciate a place in time. Drinking it in. It can happen anywhere, but there are a few places I think bring home the beauty of our planet more than others. My number one is the beach. Watching the water come in and out, knowing that the tide is determining so much more than whether we have to move our chair back, seeing the life-force under every wave, it is truly magnificent. Maybe, I'll call it "Wave Trance" A close second is the sunset. As the clouds part and the sun makes it's finally appearance of the day you can lose yourself in the awe inspiring beauty (especially if you're at the beach or at the lake). Nature in all it's forms, from the trees, to the plants and the animals that run and play can be breathtaking. Have you ever quietly watched a deer, as they gracefully move about, smiled as you watched chipmunks romp around or been fascinated watching a hummingbird take a drink of sugary nectar?
So, I may not call it "Forest Bathing" but I am in agreement with Courtney from Be More with Less every chance you get take a mindful moment and enjoy the trees.
Wishing you Grace, Peace & Healthy Living,
Lorraine
