Nature Connection: Shinrin-yoku (Forest Bathing)

“Forest bathing” or Shinrin-yoku, is a practice that originated in Japan in the 1980s. It involves spending time in a forest or other natural environment to improve physical and mental health. The practice involves slowing down and using your senses to connect with nature. Deeply connecting with nature besides being inherently rewarding and eliciting a host of positive emotions also has been demonstrated to have numerous benefits for our psychological, emotional and physical health and wellbeing. For further information on the science, benefits and practice of forest bathing and nature connection please see the Greater Good Science Centre for further information at https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_forest_bathing_is_good_for_your_health
This activity will be undertaken in the "Aranda Bushland Nature Reserve” and includes an introduction to forest bathing followed by a series of ‘Invitations’: i.e., activities designed to encourage a deeper connection with the natural world around us. Please note this walk will involve deliberate periods of quiet, attentive, and reflective mindful walking/sitting to foster a more immersive experience of and deeper connection with the country we will be walking in.