As the Environmental Educator for Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT), I spend a lot of time in the forest. This summer, I tried something a little different, even for me. I spent a week bathing in the forest. Before you start to wonder about my hygiene habits, let me explain that this was based on the Japanese concept of “Shinrin-yoku”, which roughly translates to “bathing in the forest.” My week was part of a training by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs, in which I learned the science behind why we feel so good when we visit the forest, and techniques to share with others.

Researchers in Japan have scientifically identified the health benefits that arise from spending time in the woods, such as a boosted immune system, reduced blood pressure, reduced stress, improved mood, and increased ability to focus, among many others. During a guided Shinrin-yoku walk, participants enter the forest at a leisurely pace on a gentle path and participate in activities that help open ones senses, hone intuition, and experience the forest as never before.

I now invite you to join me for a bath in the forest. Boothbay Region Land Trust will host Shinrin Yoku Forest Walks on Nov. 7, 14, and 21 at 10 a.m. This series of walks focus on cultivating well-being through a series of invitations, in which participants slow down and open their senses while interacting with the natural world. Enhance your health, wellness, and happiness during this easy walk that covers less than a ½ mile in 1 hour. Group size limited to 8 people and registration is required. Attend one walk or all three. For more information or to register, please contact me, BRLT Environmental Educator Tracey Hall at thall@bbrlt.org, or call the office at 633-4818.