Let’s cultivate a sense of calm and vitality and strengthen our inner resources with somatic forest bathing. My aim in guiding you today is to introduce you to the forest itself and to teach you a simple somatic resourcing technique that you may use anytime to relax and to help you stay embodied when uncomfortable thoughts or feelings arise. Shinrin-yoku, or Forest bathing, originated in Japan in the early 1980s as a response to rising stress and burnout in urban populations. It is not exercise, hiking, or jogging. Rather, it emphasizes slow, mindful immersion in a forest environment, using all five senses to connect deeply with nature. We will begin today’s practice with a gentle walk as we attune to the woodland environment, and then we will sit as we cultivate our somatic resources and bathe in the forest’s soothing atmosphere.
🌳 A forest bathing tip: whenever I go to the forest in the summertime, I carry a small bottle of essential oil spray to deter bugs.
🍃Here is a recipe for one that I like to make. It’s very easy to concoct, the scent is pleasant and subtle, and while it’s not what I would call industrial strength, it works well enough to do the trick without exposing you to harsh chemicals.
🌲Atmanjeet’s Forest Bathing Spray
In a 2oz spray bottle made of blue or amber glass or metal combine:
1 tablespoon of witch hazel
½ teaspoon of jojoba or almond oil
20 drops of cedarwood essential oil
5 drops lemon teatree essential oil
15 drops lavender or geranium essential oil
Top off the rest of the bottle with distilled water, shake, and enjoy!
