Forest bathing (known as shinrin-yoku) is a wellness activity that originated in Japan in the 1980s, which has exploded in popularity in the US within the last decade.

Forest bathing requires practitioners to immerse themselves in nature with intentionality and slowness, using all five of their senses. Proponents of the practice tout improved mental health, strengthened immune systems, and a decrease in blood pressure and cortisol. 

Our Ewart, Ryan will be leading a variation of forest bathing during our Sunnawente holiday, which will invite attendees to meditate on the movements of both the human and the divine in our natural surroundings. We recommend you wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and consider wearing enough coverage to keep the bugs away. Be sure to apply sun-screen and bug spray, as well as bring a towel or mat to sit on. Water is encouraged due to the heat, even if we will be moving slowly. This practice will take no more than an hour, depending on how long practitioners feel comfortable. 

Here is an article from The Cleveland Clinic about forest bathing.

Another article on forest bathing that includes links to research studies on the topic.