Stop Escaping. Start Savoring.
Using the Benefits of Savoring and Forest Bathing to Bring Relaxation and Grounding into Everyday Life
Who remembers the “Calgon Take Me Away” commercial? It first aired when I was a teenager and I couldn’t quite understand why a mother would need to escape into a bubble bath just to relax. It seemed dramatic—maybe even a little silly.
Fast forward a few decades, and I get it. Now a mother myself, I live the constant overwhelm and daily chaos of modern life where finding moments of tranquility can often feel impossible, or something that needs to be purchased through a full day at the spa.
When the pandemic hit, options to go out or ways to relax were limited and I found myself taking walks in the woods a lot just to get a moment to myself, to get some fresh air, and to decompress. What started as a way to escape stress soon became something deeper as I discovered the practices of Savoring and Forest Bathing.
Savoring, the mindful act of fully engaging in and appreciating the present moment, and consciously taking notice of all the beauty, pleasure, or peace around you without rushing past it.
Forest Bathing, an ancient practice rooted in Japanese tradition, is a practice that involves immersing yourself in the natural environment with all your senses—slowly, intentionally, and without distraction. It’s not about hiking or exercise; it’s about simply being in nature and consciously observing your senses.
Just like our pets instinctively bask in a sunbeam or joyfully chase the wind, we too can find healing in the simple wonders of the natural world. Learning to slow down and truly savor nature—even for a few moments—can feel like magic. And over time, Savoring and Forest Bathing in nature can transform your entire sense of well-being.
Positive Affects of Savoring and Forest Bathing
Studies have shown that spending time in natural environments positively affects the brain, mind, and body, leading to reduced levels of stress hormones like cortisol and increased levels of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
Beyond stress relief, scientific research reveals that nature immersion can significantly improve cognitive function, enhancing attention, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. By connecting with the natural world around you, you rejuvenate your mind and foster a more innovative and focused mindset.
Additionally, the physical health benefits are substantial—regular exposure to natural settings is associated with better immune function and lower blood pressure.
Create Your Own Forest Bathing Experience
Creating your own forest bathing experience in your backyard is easier than you might imagine. Begin by finding a quiet corner or secluded spot where you can sit and just be. Allow yourself to fully immerse in your surroundings, consciously engaging all your senses one by one into the experience:
Touch: Place your bare feet on the grass and consciously notice the texture and temperature of the ground surface. Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin and the cool breeze against your face.
Sight: Observe your surroundings taking in the colors, types of vegetation, and animals or insects visible in your space.
Hearing: Close your eyes and listen to the rustle of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the gentle sway of branches.
Smell: Breathe deeply, inhaling the scent of earth and blooming flowers in the air.
Taste: Enjoy a cool drink, savoring its flavors.
As you connect to your surroundings through your senses, you ground yourself in the present moment and surrender to the rhythm and abundance of nature. This simple act of being allows you to experience your environment in a profound way, providing a much-needed reset for your mindset, physical body, and mental clarity.
Stress melts away, tension dissipates, and a sense of calm washes over you. Like a cat bathing in the sunlight, you appreciated the simple pleasure of existence, finding peace and serenity in the embrace of the natural world.
Incorporating forest bathing into your daily routine doesn't require elaborate plans or special equipment—just a willingness to pause, breathe, and connect with the world around you.
Whether it's a few minutes spent in your backyard or a leisurely stroll through a nearby park, the benefits of this ancient practice are profound and far-reaching.
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed or need a moment, step outside, and let nature work its magic.
Be Well,
Nicole