Shinrin Yoku in Fort Saskatchewan!

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What it Means

Shinrin Yoku is Japanese Nature Therapy. Shinrin means "forest" and Yoku means "bath".

There is no principals or guidelines to practice this. It simply means going out and being in Nature. You take in the environment through your senses. It connects us to Nature. It is quite literally, taking a walk in nature with appreciation. That simple, but such a great way to relieve stress.

My Reiki Self-Care process is very connected to Shinrin Yoku. I do most of my meditation outside in the summer, I love to have my office covered with houseplants, and, a habit I picked up from my grandmother, I am an avid rock collector. Having little pieces of nature in my home helps keep me centered and grounded, when I'm not able to get outside to actively practice Shinrin Yoku.

Health Benefits

Our bodies benefit greatly from just being out in Nature. It lowers our stress, calms our minds, restores our energy and vitality. The key is to be present in the moment. Skip the phones, the cameras, the texting, and just experience your surroundings.

The key to Shinrin Yoku is to use all of your five senses when exploring in nature. Take the time to listen to the wind, leaves, water, and birds as you explore. Take the time to smell the trees, the grass, the flowers as you walk along. Take note of what's visually stunning around you. Taste the fresh air that surrounds you. If safe to do so, touch everything!! Feel the sensations and energy of Nature.

Try Shinrin Yoku in The Fort!

It can be difficult to find time to do this, as we get caught up in our busy day-to-day lives. Take advantage of every opportunity to get out. Even if it's just a local walk.

We're are very lucky that Fort Saskatchewan has such amazing walking trails. Down by the river and extending up around Old Downtown, the walking paths are such an excellent way to practice Shinrin Yoku. Turner Park is beautiful, as is Pryce Alderson Park. You can walk through the river valley, at any time, in any season, and it all feels different, each and every time.

Even still, we are very close to Elk Island, which is another one of my favourite places to go. Close access to many lakes, and only three hours to Jasper, there is lots of opportunity to explore Nature Therapy around our little town and just beyond.

Go start your Shinrin Yoku Fort Sask!

Get Happy, Get Healthy!

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For more information check out the book "Shinrin Yoku: The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing" by Yoshifumi Miyazaki. *Click Here*