Virtual Forest Bathing
*** What is Forest Bathing?***
Forest Bathing is a researched-based NATURE inspired practice that
reduces stress
has a positive effect on our immune system
improves the general sense of wellbeing
Background
“Celebrate each season, for you too are transformed by the turns of the earth.” ~Arthur Dobrin
Paula guides folks virtually in mindful experiences with NATURE;
invite opening of the senses to feel NATURE more deeply and
strengthen their connection with the natural world.
The practice of Forest Bathing started in Japan in the 1980s when a cultural shift saw many people move from rural life to urban lifestyles, spending long days in office buildings.
This shift resulted in a rise of health issues and research began to reveal that spending time in NATURE has a spectrum of documented health benefits.
In response, the Japanese government started the public health practice of Shin-rin Yoku (translated to ‘taking in the Forest atmosphere’) and now is practiced as Forest Bathing all over the world.
We endeavor to create inclusive and accessible virtual Forest Bathing experiences.
***How to Forest Bathe?***
photo by Kelina Chevalier
***Why Forest Bathe?***
Forest Bathing is a practice of immersion in NATURE to deepen your connection with the living earth which has proven health benefits
It is also a movement of Eco-conciousness to cultivate our ‘remembering’ (as Samantha Sweetwater phrases it)
“I go to NATURE to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.” ~John Burroughs
Guided Forest Bathing begins with mindful sensory awareness exercises designed to help settle busy minds, open hearts and activate senses. With images of NATURE, Paula invites the ‘remembering’ of our relationship with NATURE.
The personal wellbeing practice of Forest Bathing became exponentially popular worldwide in recent years, particularly since the 2020 pandemic, as people remember that NATURE is a medicinal antedocte to their stress.
NATURE is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty.”
~John Ruskin
***Who guides Forest bathing?***
Virtual sessions:
As a Certified Forest Bathing Guide, Paula shares a gentle virtual walk through NATURE images live over Zoom. Slow down, notice the breath, tune into senses and relax into the present moment.
Benefits
The health benefits of Forest Bathing are well researched all over the world over the past several decades
Modern science confirms what people intuitively know- that NATURE is good for our health (our ancestral knowledge from evolving in natural places)
Forest Bathing reduces stress, heart rate, blood pressure, depression, anxiety and symptoms of ADHD while increasing creativity, concentration and immune activity
A series of custom invitations offers opportunities to focus on senses and engage with NATURE. These sessions create space to slow down, remember our connection to the natural world and be with NATURE.
***Where to Forest Bathe?***
Forest Bathing with Paula is experienced virtually while you are indoors or outdoors with your device live over Zoom
Phygigital experiences (blending physical and digital) provide flexibility for those participating in Forest Bathing with Paula