Shinrin Yoku: Mindfulness in Nature
There is a growing body of research that supports the benefits of being in nature, not only for our physical health but also our mental wellbeing.
Although forest bathing would seem to be a modern phenomenon, it actually has a long history dating back to around 800 BC to the Shinto religion of Japan.
Practitioners of Shinto sought out the natural world, where they experienced their deities in nature - worshipping the rocks, trees, wind and sun. They believed that everyone and everything in the natural world is connected. A Follower of the Shinto religion would walk and meditate in the forest, to achieve a deep relaxed state and communion with nature.
Today there is ample scientific evidence to support the benefits of being in nature
Calming our nerves by lowering the stress hormone cortisol, lowering blood pressure, anxiety, depression and aiding sleep are a few of the findings from the research. Furthermore, Dr Li, President of the Society for Forest Medicine in Japan, has found that trees release chemicals “phytoncides” (antimicrobial essential oils), which boosts your mood and immune system.
The benefits are numerous and well researched. In Japan, which has more than 60 certified forest therapy centres, Shinrin Yoku is an established preventative therapy, and has been an integral part of their health care system for many years.
Shinrin Yoku is not just a walk in the woods though, where you might be talking to a friend, be on the phone or lost in thought.
Practicing Shinrin Yoku, involves a full and deep immersion in the natural world. This is done by purposefully engaging all our senses, allowing ourselves to notice ever more deeply the intricacies of nature.
Shinrin Yoku is Mindfulness in nature
The way I work with people and groups is by bringing all the qualities of mindfulness to the natural world, opening our senses and our hearts through guided meditations and poems. When we ask our heart's question to nature, and are receptive, listening, she speaks...
Nature offers us intuitive insights and speaks to us in a language that can guide us to wisdom and healing. Reflecting back to us that which we need to sense, through the call of a bird, the movement of a leaf in the breeze, the steadiness of a tree, the unexpected brush of a cobweb across our face. There is a message.
“In Shinto, the spirits are not separate from nature, they are in it. They are in the trees, in the rocks, in the breeze, the stream, the waterfall.”
- Dr Li
I have never come back from a mindful walk not feeling in some way answered and enriched.
Mindful walks are also creative and fun.
When we deeply connect with nature in this way, we realise that we are part of nature and not apart from nature, when we see this, our hearts open in gratitude and respect for our fellow nature beings.
Very good for the earth, very good for us...
“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off you like falling leaves”.
- John Muir, Nature Writings
Mindfulness in Nature courses and events
Weekly events
Guided Nature Meditation with inquiry
Mindfulness in Nature - Guided Nature Meditation with inquiry every first Monday of the month, 7.30 pm.
Contemplating Nature
Mindfulness in Nature Event - Contemplating Nature. Every second, third and fourth Monday of the month at 7.30 pm.