09 - Forest Bathing for Replenished Energy

This episode focuses on the many benefits of forest bathing on physical and mental health. In this episode, Elizabeth Mintun interviews several people who have participated in forest bathing experiences: Margy Davis-Mintun, Garth Mintun, and Marc Joslyn. Elizabeth also interviews her husband Scott, who has guided several forest bathing walks with her. This episode focuses on the value of forest bathing (also known as forest therapy and shinrin-yoku) to slow down, connect with yourself and the land, and drop into your senses.  The practice of forest bathing offers a structured sequence as well as spontaneity, and it works within the paradigm that we are in a reciprocal relationship with the natural world around us. Key Takeaways: Forest bathing has been found to decrease your cortisol levels, your heart rate, blood pressure, and stabilize your nervous and immune systems. Forest bathing has been shown to boost memory, improve concentration, engage creativity, and improve mood. Forest bathing is a unique way to slow down and find solace in nature while deepening one’s connection with themself and nature.