Monday, February 1, 2016

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!





14 comments:

  1. I never knew that shinrin yoku was the name for my favorite thing to do either! I find it completely necessary for my sanity!
    I love your place in KY -- so gorgeous!

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    1. Me, too, Judy - I don't think I could live without it!

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  2. lovely to see you forest bathing in beautiful places.
    as well as to see your wonderful photos. forests seem to be a beloved place for so many of us.

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    1. Thank you, Tammie. So nice that we were all shinrin yoku and didn't even know it!

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  3. Forest Bathing is the best...nice to have a name put to it! We have these old redwoods growing in a circle with mama and baby redwoods and standing in the center is truly being held!

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    1. Your circle of redwoods sounds heavenly - what a magical feeling that must be!

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  4. Great post.The post is too lovely.I am willing to visit your place.I think this place will help to relieve my stress.
    online resume

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  5. you look so happy while bathing, what a lovely post!
    x Stefanie

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    1. Thank you Stefanie; being in the forest always makes me feel happy, and it's cheaper than therapy! :)

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  6. good to see you in your special place, the photography is sublime

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  7. Great post, and thank you for a new word and a name to what we do!! love this!!

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  8. I love that name, don't you? Thanks, Cat!

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