Indigenous Peoples Day Forest Bathing Immersion

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing, rooted in the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, involves purposefully spending time in nature to enhance health and well-being. Unlike a hike, it emphasizes slow walks, sitting, or lying down to deeply observe and appreciate the immediate surroundings. Guided sessions, lasting one to three hours, typically include a short, mindful walk (half mile to one mile) and various invitations to observe nature using each sense separately.

Engaging all senses—sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch—forest bathing immerses individuals in the natural environment. Research indicates that it can reduce stress hormones and blood pressure, boost immunity, enhance mood and cognition, and stimulate creativity. This practice fosters a genuine connection with nature, encouraging a deeper relationship with the environment.

Forest bathing is suitable for anyone, regardless of experience or skill level. It offers a retreat from the demands of daily life, promoting stress relief, improved focus, and an opportunity to explore nature with an open mind.

• Science of Forest Bathing
• F AQ about Forest Bathing

About the Guide: Madeleine Gerdes is a Certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide accredited through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides (ANFT). She provides Forest Bathing outings in Silicon Valley and the Santa Cruz Mountains through Mad About The Forest. Madeleine and her husband are active Volunteer Trail Patrol members with the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District.

Her passion lies in introducing people to the practice of Forest Bathing, where she facilitates guided experiences for groups and individuals to immerse themselves in nature and enhance their well-being. Madeleine has a personal connection with nature, having spent summers in the mountains, sleeping under the stars, and running barefoot through the forest. Apart from her nature-related pursuits, she enjoys activities such as gardening, cooking, sewing, and knitting.

Host or Publisher Mad About The Forest