Forest Bathing in Big Basin

A version of this article was originally written for Heartwood Tree Company as a reflection of my trip to a Redwood forest. I thought it would be fun to share this story on the newsletter. Enjoy!

Rain softens everything in the redwood forest. Fallen giants slowly return to the earth, while ferns dance from the tapping of water droplets. I’m walking beneath the tallest trees in the world near dusk, enveloped by the misty breath of the woods. The path meanders between the massive redwood trees and is littered with evergreen stems, weathered stones, and stray roots. The increasing flow of rain forms two paths, one for gentle streams and one for feet. The path for feet leads me further into the quiet forest. 

In search of a way to decompress from the clatter of the city, I have come to the forest for relaxation. In the book Your Guide to Forest Bathing Amos Clifford introduces us to forest therapy, which is based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku. Developed in the 1980’s by Tomohide Akiyama, it was presented as a way for urban dwellers to decompress from their busy lives, while reaping some of the many health benefits of forest bathing. It has been adapted in the United States by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs. Their website defines forest therapy as “the practice of spending time in forested areas for the purpose of enhancing health, wellness, and happiness.”

 The defined practice of forest bathing is relatively young, but the intuitive act of healing in nature is nothing new. We evolved in forests, and forest bathing has been shown to decrease levels of stress hormones, improve the immune system and mood, and increase creative problem solving. I am certainly not the first to write about the benefits of spending time outdoors.

 Wilderness is fundamental to our health and well-being, but unfortunately there are too many people who experience modern ailments like Nature-Deficit Disorder due to a separation from wild places. These ailments spring from a division that has been brewing in our society throughout history and is illustrated by culture and language. The idea of woods as foreboding places is so ingrained that even words like “savage” derive their roots from the Latin word for the woods. The forest has been regarded in stories as a place for witches, werewolves, and wild danger. What if instead, it was the cultural norm to regard forests as a place to feel safe and protected? 

Perhaps we would plant more trees. 

A key part of forest bathing is changing the way that we build a relationship to the forest. It gives us the opportunity to view the forest as a place of mutual healing, rather than a resource to colonize. We are more likely to protect what we appreciate. The practice not only allows opportunities for rejuvenation, but it helps to reduce the apathy that has led to the disappearance of our wild places. After having practiced forest bathing in Big Basin, it was much more shocking when I learned that I was walking in only 5% of what remained of an ancient redwood forest. Context can be so cruel. 

The relationship between ourselves and the forest is inherit. So, it is a surprise that we have lost touch at all. During my forest bathing experience a quote by Alan Watts kept creeping back into my mind, “You didn't come into this world. You came out of it, like a wave from the ocean. You are not a stranger here." 

Forest bathing is centered around having mindful experiences in nature and you can try out these activities to help you along. The following “invitations” were found in Your Guide to Forest Bathing, by Amos Clifford. 

1. Mindful walking: Don’t worry about distance, just take a relaxing stroll and try to be present during your walk. 

2. Barefoot walking: If you know of a trail that would be good for barefoot walking, then give it a try. It will help keep you sensitive to the environment. Bring along some sandals for rough patches. 

3. Deep breathing: During a walk in a forest take some time to practice deep breathing. Stop and inhale for 8 seconds, hold for 5, and exhale for 10. Do this at least 5 times. 

4. Sit by water: Try to find a stream or body of water to sit near for about ten minutes. The sound of running water will support your practice.

5. Achieve nothing: Most importantly, don’t worry about doing it right or wrong. Just showing up is a win!

If this newsletter inspired you to walk out in the forest, then please respond and tell me about your experience. It’s helpful to remember that peace is a practice. Mindful experiences like this can create positive change for our environment and mental health.

Written for 445 beautiful readers. 💌

Until next Thursday,
Ken Welch

About the Author

Ken Welch is a horticulturist and research professional at UW–Madison. He’s drawn to native ecosystems, community gardens, and helping others grow confidence in their craft.