Forest Bathing in Hakone Gardens

Discover the art of forest bathing with a guided sensory immersion walk to awaken your senses and connect with nature in a deeper and more meaningful way.

In our fast-paced world, we can feel isolated from each other and disconnected from nature, caught up in the constant demands of our busy lives. Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, offers a powerful antidote to the stress and tension accumulating in our minds and bodies.

Forest bathing is an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the natural world. As you wander through the whispering bamboo, you'll learn to engage all your senses, allowing the forest’s soothing sounds, fragrances, and textures to wash over you.

Benefits of forest bathing:

• Improved mood and mental clarity
• Boosted immune system function
• Enhanced focus and creativity
• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Lowered blood pressure and heart rate
• Deeper sleep and better overall well-being

Whether you're seeking relief from workplace stress, looking to deepen your connection with nature, or simply curious about this ancient practice, this forest bathing session offers a unique opportunity to nurture your mind, body, and spirit.

Agenda
Meet Janet, our guide at the entrance gate at 11:00 AM; please arrive promptly so you don’t miss anything. There will be a short introduction to forest bathing and how to practice it and a few gentle mindfulness exercises to cultivate a state of relaxed awareness and then break up to enjoy simply being in nature and absorbing all it has to offer you.

You'll learn techniques to carry this sense of calm and connection back into your daily life, creating lasting positive changes in how you relate to yourself and the world around you.

NOTE: After the introduction, you are encouraged to take in the beauty and wonder of this place in silence. Take this time to rediscover the quiet healing power of nature. The timeless beauty of Hakone Gardens will inspire you to live with greater presence, peace, and joy.

About Hakone Gardens:

Tucked in the hills of Saratoga, California, Hakone Gardens is an 18-acre oasis of tranquility featuring hillside gardens, a bamboo grove, a Koi Pond, and a waterfall, each offering its unique connection with nature. The cultural exchange center offers historic images and art and has beautiful historic buildings dating back to 1918.

Details:

• Hakone Estate and Gardens is located at 21000 Big Basin Way Saratoga, CA 95070
• Free parking is available in the lot
• Weekend hours are from 11AM-5PM and you are free to enjoy the property
• Admission to the gardens is required, $12 for Adults and $10 for Seniors
• A picnic area is available if you choose to stay. (no reservations)

Host or Publisher Janet Fouts -Nearly Mindful