Forest Bathing

Forest bathing is the practice of spending time surrounded by nature and connecting to the spirits of the forest to find calm, renewed energy and well-being. It ahs recently been popularized by the Japanese term shinrin-yoku, but this practice of honoring the sacred spirits of nature is something many, if not all, Indigenous cultures have in common. Being immersed in nature allows us to feel the restorative healing energy of the trees and other sacred plants in our minds, bodies, and souls. Away from the busy city streets and stressful workdays, Mother Earth feeds our senses and spirits in ways that we forget are possible during our everyday lives.

If you have pulled this card, it is because your soul is longing for grounded nourishment. Self-care is often the first thing we disregard when life becomes overwhelming and the to-do lists pile up, so be mindful of the foods you eat and how you treat your body. Listen to your body’s need to rest when you are tired, to love when you feel desire, and above all, to respect the Earth that supports you. Seek soul nourishment by being connected with nature and embracing the splendor that is around you.

Flesh to the Earth Practice

Barefooted, step on the Earth. Grass, dirt, sand, river, ocean, mountain…any part of the Earth. Stand tall like a tree and root your feet into the Earth. Take a moment to connect with the Earth. Allow her to ground you and send loving, healing energies up your spine. Focus on your breathing, slowly inhale and then exhale. As you do, bring your focus to the sounds of the Earth. Do you hear the birds? the bellowing of the wind? What sounds surround you in this space that nourishes your spirit? Now bring your focus to the flesh. What do you feel? Is the Earth wet? Is she old or warm? Pay attention to the gentle energies that trickle from the Earth and onto your skin. Keep your breathing slow. Release yourself to the magic of bathing with our Mother. Stay with her as long as you need to.