If you’re like me, you’re always looking for ways to manifest your desires more effectively. And what better way to do that than by forest bathing?
For those who don’t know, forest bathing is a practice of spending time in nature for relaxation and stress relief.
And recent studies have shown that it can also effectively manifest our desires.
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku, means “taking in the forest atmosphere.”
Forest bathing is a practice that can be done anywhere there are trees and plants.
Forest bathing is about connecting with nature through our senses.
Connecting with nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while increasing our energy levels, focus, and creativity.
Forest bathing can also help to improve our sleep quality.
There are many ways to connect with nature, but some of the best ways to do so are by walking barefoot on the earth, sitting or lying down on the ground, or spending time in a treehouse.
If you don’t have access to a forest, there are other ways to get your nature fix.
For example, you can visit a botanical garden or an indoor green space such as an atrium or conservatory.
Adding houseplants to your home or office space can also bring nature indoors.
Where to Go for Forest Therapy?
There are many ways to get involved with forest therapy, and it is not just about spending time in the forest.
It can be about connecting with nature in any way that works for you.
It is important to find a place that feels safe for you to relax and spend time.
If you live in an urban area, there may be a park or botanical gardens that you can visit.
There are also many forest bathing groups around the world that offer guided walks and retreats in different locations.
Online programs and courses can help you learn more about forest therapy and how to manifest effectively through this natural therapy.
How to Start Forest Bathing
Before enjoying the benefits of forest bathing, you must find a place to do it.
So first, ensure you have enough time to spend in the forest — an hour is good, but two or three hours is even better.
Then, once you’ve found a suitable location, follow these steps:
- Leave your phone and camera behind. The whole point of forest bathing is to disconnect from technology and connect with nature.
- Put on some comfortable clothes and footwear. You will be walking around, so make sure you wear shoes that protect your feet and clothes that won’t restrict your movement.
- Get rid of anything else that might distract you, such as books, music players, or even jewelry.
- Once you’re in the forest, take your time and wander slowly. There’s no need to hurry. Take your time.
- Pay attention to your senses. Smell the flowers, listen to the birds singing, feel the bark of the trees . . . Let nature enter into all your senses.
- Take a break when you feel like it. For example, sit down on a fallen tree or lie on the ground and stare at the sky for a while. Breathe deeply and relax. This is your time to recharge!
How to Get the Most Out of Forest Bathing
Have you ever noticed how good it feels to spend time in nature?
Being in the forest can help us to feel more connected, grounded, and present.
It can also allow us to reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of overwhelm.
There are many ways to forest bathe, but a few key things will help you get the most out of your experience.
First, finding a place that feels safe and comfortable for you is important.
If you are not used to being in nature, it is important to start with short visits and gradually build up your time in the woods.
Once you have found a comfortable place to be, it is time to slow down and let go of any expectations or goals for your time in nature.
This is not a time for exercise or productivity – simply allow yourself to be present and open to whatever comes up for you.
You may want to spend some time walking mindfully, observing the plants and animals around you, or simply sitting quietly and listening to the sounds of the forest.
If you find your mind wandering, simply bring your attention back to your breath or the sensations in your body.
The goal is not to clear your mind completely – rather, it is about learning to let go and be present in the moment.
When you are finished forest bathing, take some time to write down or share any reflections or insights that came up to you during your experience.
Undertaking regular forest baths can help us to feel more connected with nature, reduce stress and anxiety, boost our moods, improve our sleep quality, and increase our overall sense of well-being.
So next time you feel overwhelmed or disconnected, head outside and see what benefits Shinrin-yoku might bring into your life!
Do a Digital Detox
It can be tempting to document your experience with photos and videos when you’re in nature.
But resist the urge to pull out your phone and instead focus on being present in the moment.
Instead, take time to unplug from technology and detach from the digital world.
This will help you clear your mind and connect with the natural world around you.
Become Aimless
The forest bathing method prescribed by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku is based on the concept of Komoriuta, an old folk song in which a mother puts her child to sleep by singing about the sights and sounds of the forest.
Forest bathing, or taking in the forest atmosphere, has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing stress, mood, anxiety, heart health and blood pressure, and sleep quality.
To forest bathe, become aimless and let the universe take control.
Pick a direction and start walking with no destination in mind.
Listen to the sounds of nature around you: the trickle of a stream, birdsong, rustling leaves.
Smell the fragrance of flowers and trees.
Touch the trunk of a tree.
Drink in the scene around you.
Let your mind wander where it will.
The key is to slow down and connect with nature.
Find Your Favorite Spot
There are endless reasons to love forests.
They are natural air conditioners, providing respite from the summer heat.
They are wonderful places to explore, where you can find peace and quiet away from the bustle of city life.
And they offer some of the best opportunities for forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku.
It’s an easy way to connect with nature and doesn’t require special equipment or training.
All you need is a sense of curiosity and a love of being outside.
To start forest bathing, find a spot near trees where you feel comfortable.
It should be where you can take your shoes and socks off and feel the ground beneath your feet.
Once you’ve found your spot, take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to relax.
Take in the sights and smells of nature, and let your mind wander.
Stay in your spot for at least 20 minutes or as long as you like.
Forest bathing is an entirely personal experience, so there are no rules on how long you should stay in one place.
If you’re new to forest bathing, it may help to have a guide lead the way.
Some trained professionals can help you get the most out of your experience by teaching you how to focus on your senses while in nature.
Once you’ve tried forest bathing with a guide, you may find that it’s something you enjoy doing on your own time.
Appreciate the Environment
When you take a break in nature to appreciate the environment, give thanks for the good things in your life, and be grateful for what you have, it’s called forest bathing.
This simple act can have profound effects on your health and well-being.
Research has shown that forest bathing can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Boost mood and energy levels
- Improve sleep quality
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduce inflammation
- Boost immunity
A Clean Mind is the Key to Manifesting
To manifest effectively, it is important to have a clear mind.
Just as you wouldn’t plant seeds in a weed-infested garden, you wouldn’t want to try to manifest with a mind full of negative thoughts and emotions.
Whenever a negative thought or feeling pops up, acknowledge it and then let it go.
Don’t try to resist it or push it away, as that will only give it more power.
If you’re feeling stuck or blocked in some area of your life, go for a walk in the park or sit under a tree for a while and breathe fresh air.
You may find that the answers you’re seeking come more easily when your mind is at peace.
Conclusion
There are many ways to enjoy forest bathing, but one of the most effective is guiding, led by certified forest therapy guides.
These walks take place in forests specifically chosen for their therapeutic properties.
The therapist will lead you on a slow walk and offer guidance on connecting with nature through your senses.