The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, which translates to ‘forest bathing’, is the medicine of simply being in the forest. It is a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness. The purpose is to slow down and become immersed in the natural environment. The mental and physical health benefits include reducing stress and fostering relaxation, boosting the immune system, increasing energy, and decreasing anxiety, depression and anger.
A Time Magazine article on Shinrin-Yoku can be found here.
“New research suggests that our connection to nature is much more important to our cognition than we think and that even small amounts of exposure to the living world can improve our creativity and enhance our mood.” Florence Williams, The Nature Fix.
To register, please click the button, below. Your $5 registration fee will help offset the cost of this event.
All ages and abilities are welcome. Bring water and wear bug spray, if desired. Rain date is July 14th at 10:00am.
About the Wellness Series: Since the onset of the pandemic, residents from all walks of life have relied on the New Canaan Land Trust’s preserves to find peace and solace. As we emerge from this challenging time, the New Canaan Land Trust, Let’s Talk About it New Canaan and The Community Mindfulness Project have partnered to create a series of wellness events for the New Canaan community, inspired by nature and the outdoors. Through yoga, meditation, shinrin-yoku, and other practices, program participants will learn about and have the opportunity to practice a number of different techniques to promote mental health and wellbeing. The goals of each program will be to teach participants a practice, ensure that they have the resources and experience to continue that practice on their own, and introduce them to the Land Trust’s network of open space.
About the Instructor: With the glow of summer upon us, Carol Shear of the Community Mindfulness Project will explore the practice of forest bathing and then lead an experiential walk outside inspiring us to tune into our surroundings by using all of our senses – the smells, textures, tastes and sights of our natural world. Carol Shear is a Registered Nurse, Integrative Health Coach and Mindfulness Meditation Facilitator trained at Duke University, Integrative Medicine Program and Certified Master Gardener. She currently offers meditation practice sessions with the Community Mindfulness Project.
The NC Community Wellness Series was made possible by a generous grant from the Rotary Club of New Canaan
