We practice what in Japon is called "Shinrin-Yoku". It is not about trekking or jogging. It is about being mindful in nature,connecting with nature through all senses.
Mindfulness refers to a way of being that involves an intentional awareness of the present moment. With mindfulness, you are actively aware of what is going on in your mind, body, and surroundings (sensations, thoughts, feelings, etc.) without labeling anything as good or bad.
And when we open up our sense, we begin to connect to the world around us, to feel ourselves as part of the whole,
through heartfelt awareness. we feel at Home.
BENEFITS OF NATURE CONNECTION
Studies have shown that time in nature — as long as people feel safe — is an antidote for stress: It can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood. Breathing Breathing in the forest, you will inhale more pure oxygen and natural aromas that trees produce called phytoncides, which have been shown to help asthma, reduce stress hormones, improve concentration and boost the immune system after only a 20-minute walk in the forest..... read more
Practice Example
There are many ways that nature can be used to enhance mindful awareness. For example, while sitting in meditation on a mountainside or in another natural space with a panoramic view, you can open our eyes and without gazing at any one object in particular, try to both embrace and relax in to the entire panorama. This meditative technique can help to cultivate an expansive mental view that is conducive to settled meditation and to gaining insight into the open and limitless nature of the mind
why do i need a guide
Experience nature in a different way: Many of us live on "auto-pilot" mode. We don't always notice what is around us. And, when we do slow down there's often a lot of chatter in our minds. Technology contributes to our fast-paced and distracted lives.
A guided mindful immersion in nature offers an opportunity to unplug and slow down.
Social Health: A mindful immersion in nature can be done one-on-one or in a group. In a group walk, you are invited to share your nature connection experience with others, feel part of a community.
The Science Behind It
It’s not just a theory: Forest Therapy has actually been put to the test by doctors, who found many positive effects.
“Walking in the woods [caused] significant reduction in chronic widespread pain and depression”, found one study. Students who walked just 15 minutes a day in the woods displayed decreased stress and heart rates.
Forests have even been proven to strengthen our immune system, by promoting “natural killer cells” which destroy cancer cells. (Dr. Eeva Karjalainen)
The magic component of forests? Phytoncide
Phytoncides are essentially like natural essential oils - nature-derived aromatherapy; phytoncides from trees have been proven to positively affect human immune systems and cognitive experience.