In our fast-paced society, it is easy to lose touch with nature and ourselves. Forest bathing, also known as Shinrin-Yoku, is a practice that encourages individuals to slow down, immerse themselves in nature, and reconnect with the present moment.
I recently had a Forest Bathing experience here in Park City hosted by Indigo Highway, my favorite boutique in the area, where the facilitator Chris Newton founder of River of Light Forest Bathing introduced the group to two powerful prompts:
"Pleasure in Presence" and "What's in Motion"
and how they can facilitate a profound connection to nature and inner peace.
Prompt 1: Pleasure in Presence
The first prompt, "Pleasure in Presence," invites forest bathers to become fully present in the natural environment surrounding them. Instead of rushing through the forest, this practice encourages participants to engage their senses mindfully. The aim is to open ourselves to the beauty of the moment, free from the burden of past regrets or future anxieties.
To practice "Pleasure in Presence," follow these steps:
Find a spot in the forest that speaks to you, whether it's a sunlit clearing, a babbling brook, or a majestic tree.
Sit or stand comfortably and take a few deep breaths to ground yourself in the present moment.
Observe your surroundings with curiosity, paying attention to the colors, shapes, textures, and scents around you.
Listen to the sounds of the forest, from the gentle rustling of leaves to the chirping of birds.
Engage your sense of touch by feeling the rough bark of a tree, the softness of moss, or the coolness of the forest floor beneath your feet.
Allow yourself to experience joy and gratitude for the simple pleasures that nature provides.
Practicing "Pleasure in Presence" during forest bathing can lead to reduced stress levels, improved mood, and a sense of interconnectedness with the natural world.
Prompt 2: What's in Motion
The second prompt, "What's in Motion," encourages forest bathers to recognize the constant movement and interconnectedness in nature. This prompt acknowledges the dynamic and ever-changing rhythm of life in the forest.
To practice "What's in Motion," follow these steps:
Find a comfortable spot in the forest, preferably near an area with flowing water or gentle breeze.
Take a few moments to focus on your breath and clear your mind of distractions.
Observe the movement around you - watch the leaves swaying in the wind, the flow of a nearby stream, or the insects buzzing from flower to flower.
Reflect on how everything in the forest is interconnected, from the intricate relationships between plants and animals to the cycles of growth and decay.
Consider how the forest's constant motion mirrors the ever-changing flow of life in our own existence.
By embracing the concept of "What's in Motion," forest bathers can gain a deeper appreciation for the cyclical nature of life and find solace in the knowledge that change is inevitable and part of the natural order.
Forest bathing provides a valuable opportunity to reconnect with nature and ourselves in a world that often pulls us away from such meaningful experiences. By practicing the prompts "Pleasure in Presence" and "What's in Motion," we can cultivate a profound sense of presence and awe for the natural world. As we slow down, engage our senses, and observe the constant motion of the forest (or whatever nature you may be in), we become more attuned to the beauty and wisdom that surrounds us. So, the next time you step into the embrace of the woods (beach, dessert, etc), remember to breathe, immerse yourself fully, and embrace the pleasure of being present and witnessing what's in motion.