Forest Bathing

Shinrin-yoku, otherwise known as forest bathing is the practice of totally immersing yourself in a forest. This event will be a variant of the practice. We will walk silently and we will stop occasionally as we experience our natural surroundings, but we will walk at a slightly faster pace than is normally practiced; an average of 2-2.5 mph due to the cooler weather at this time of year. We’ll hike approximately 3 miles. There is a stop overlooking a peaceful pond toward the end where there are a few picnic tables and benches to sit on. At the stop, there will be an opportunity to engage in conversation if desired and participants are certainly welcome to engage in conversation before and after the walk. Before starting, the leader will give some tips on how to get the most enjoyment from the activity so please try to arrive on time.

The trails are single and double-track dirt. There are some hills. Leaving your cell phones and similar electronics in your car or in airplane mode, and dressing appropriately for the weather & walking conditions is requested.

For more information about shinrin you, feel free to read this recent article published in REI Co-Op Journal: https://bit.ly/2P1xJ9U