This morning, while meditating outside on a stump surrounded by nature, I found myself tuning in to the chirping sounds of the birds and frogs, feeling the sensation of the sun and wind on my skin, and I began to wonder if I was actually Forest Bathing. In truth, my exact thought was “Is it Forest Bathing if you are fully clothed?”*
A quick post-meditation google search confirmed that this was, in fact what I had been doing. Forest bathing is simply the experience of sitting quietly in nature while mindfully noticing the information coming in through your five senses. And it’s lovely.
Research shows that exercising in a green space provides extra depression-busting benefits beyond exercise alone. This benefit is even more enhanced in a “green and blue” space, where water is also present. It seems logical to suspect that the same is true with mindfulness practices and meditation.
So, if you want to boost your health, happiness and mental well-being, commit yourself to a regular meditation practice. If you want to supercharge your practice, get outside!
*(Side note- I wasn’t doing an awesome job letting go of my thoughts as they arose... I am very much an imperfect meditator 😂😂😂).
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