Drawing Challenge: Shinrin Yoku

Shinrin Yoku is something I do a lot, though I hadn't known those words for it until Veronica named it the theme for her drawing challenge.

Shinrin Yoku is a Japanese phrase that translates as "forest bathing."

" A forest bathing trip involves visiting a forest for relaxation and recreation while breathing in volatile substances, called phytoncides (wood essential oils), which are antimicrobial volatile organic compounds derived from trees... It has now become a recognized relaxation and/or stress management activity in Japan." (Wikipedia, Forest bathing)

Also called "forest medicine" and "forest therapy", shinrin yoku has been promoted by the Forest Agency of the Japanese government since 1982.

It turns out that scientific evidence supports the idea that spending time in a forest is good for your health.

 "A  2007 study by researchers at Kyoto University's Graduate School of Medicine found that 'forest environments are advantageous with respect to acute emotions, especially among those experiencing chronic stress. Accordingly, shinrin-yoku may be employed as a stress reduction method, and forest environments can be viewed as therapeutic landscapes.'" ("Shinrin-yoku:The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing" by Stephen Robert Morse)

 Here I am, shinrin yoku beside the Yellowstone River in Yellowstone National Park.

My favorite  place for shinrin yoku is at Shabo-Mekaw, our 60-acre tract of gorgeous forest in Lewis County, Kentucky.

It's the perfect place to let go of my stress and just be in the moment, letting the forest 'bathe' me in its peace and beauty.

Being there never fails to calm me and give me a fresh perspective on whatever problems I may be facing. Somehow, spending time with a huge, ancient tree makes my worries seem insignificant.

So thank you, Veronica, for introducing me to the wonderful concept of "forest bathing."



To see other interpretations of shinrin yoku, go to Veronica's wonderful blog for all the links!