Introduction to Forest Bathing

So, what is Forest Bathing exactly?  This lecture gives students fascinating information about the practice so that they will be able to understand its value and be able to educate others along the way. 

We go over Forest Bathing's: 

• Meaning

• Origin

• History

• Cultural Context

• Philosophy

• Major Tenants

Nature has been shown by science to have amazing benefits.  We go over these psychological and physiological benefits and talk about healthy ways of receiving what nature gives to us.  I also touch on a landmark study about one of the intriguing ways that certain trees can boost our immune function.   Check out the link included in the resources to learn more!

To start your Forest Bathing practice, I go over:

• What to look for in a natural area

• How to find a conducive area

• How long should it take

• The mindset

• How to prepare

• What to bring

• What not to bring

Here I describe the value of using our senses and set up the following lectures and assignments to help students get in touch and learn ways to experience nature and the forest.

Here I guide you through the sense of Sight so that you may use this technique out in nature.

Here I guide you through the sense of Hearing so that you may use this technique out in nature.  You won't need anything special for this.  Just your ears:)

Here I guide you through the sense of Touch so that you may use this technique out in nature.  You'll need to have two objects to touch close at hand for the first part of the guided activity.

Here I guide you through the sense of Smell so that you may use this technique out in nature.

• You'll need two things to smell for the first part of this guided activity. i.e. spices from the spice drawer

Here I guide you through the sense of Taste so that you may use this technique out in nature.

• You'll need something to taste for this at hand for the guided activity.  I recommend a nice tea like chamomile of peppermint.

A welcome back from all the sense immersions.  I explain what's next on your journey.

I go over the ways students can incorporate Forest Bathing into their lives.

• Way of the Guide

• The group Experience

• Suggested routine

• Developing a "Sit Spot" practice

Our final lecture I offer real world resources to help students develop and continue their practice of Forest Bathing.