Day 14 challenge: Forest Bathing~ Discover the secrets of Shinrin-Yoke Let the trees be your guide ~The mountains be your source.
Today's challenge, Wild One, is to experience the healing power of nature. In M Amos Cliffords book “ Your guide to Forest Bathing” he states that the practice of forest bathing is different then a hike. As we forest bath we immerse our senses in the special qualities of the fluid oceanic ambience of the woodlands. Get to the word now- not with the sense of getting somewhere aka hike but with the intention of being part of and listening to nature. Begin with a threshold of connection, mark the start of the experience. Place a stick at the starting point and cross over and begin to heal. Stay here for several minutes, moving mindfully, stretching the body and opening the mind. Begin a slow thoughtful 20 minute walk. Walk in forest time and not what's in motion by using all five senses, sight, sound, smell, taste and touch. Perhaps you might drop into a few yoga poses from previous challenges and drop into the connection. As you are ready to leave, walk back and cross over the threshold bringing a sense of calm and healing with you.
WalkAbout Wild journal prompt: What colors did you see? What animals? At what point did you feel the deepest connection to nature? Pose of the Day: Tree Benefits: Creates inner peace and balance. Strengthens core and legs. Chakras: First, Second, Third and Sixth as a balance point.
How to Tree: From your stable mountain place your weight heavy in your right foot as you peel up the left heel. Place your left foot on your shin or thigh. Press the foot and leg together. On an inhale sweep arms toward the sky. Reach deep into the earth to find your source of wisdom and compassion.
"And into the forest I go to lose my mind and find my soul." ~John Muir