“I think that I cannot preserve my health and spirits, unless I spend four hours a day at least — and it is commonly more than that — sauntering through the woods and over the hills and fields, absolutely free

from all worldly engagements.”  

— Henry David Thoreau

 

Spending time in nature for health and well-being is not a new concept, but many people today spend much of their life indoors and tethered to devices.

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Becoming aware of our existing relationship with Nature, we discover that we are interconnected by simply breathing and eating.  We are in relation with soils, micro-organisms, underground aquifers, plants, trees, animals, the sun and the seasonal procession of the weather and all it brings. When we deepen our awareness of these things, we realize many health benefits. And this awareness is based on mindful presence.

 

Here at the Center, we offer our Shinrin Yoku trail for you to develop greater mindfulness and presence while engaging with Nature. Shinrin Yoku is a Japanese term for ‘forest bathing’, the experience of nature mindfulness that opens our senses of seeing, hearing, touching, smelling and tasting while inviting healing interactions with Nature. The benefits may include reduced stress levels, reduced blood pressure, reduced cortisol levels, improved immune response, a sense of well-being and creative inspiration. 

 

We invite you to enjoy a mindful walk on the Shinrin Yoku trail that outlines the perimeter of the property.

 

Along the way discover several contemplation areas:

• Hammock on the Knoll

• Medicine Wheel

• Temple of Bells.