Reconnect With Nature

Much of my childhood was spent playing in the forest.  Tree limbs were my jungle gym and sticks became my excavating tools as I would dig for rocks and quartz.  I can still smell the fresh scent of the forest ground and feel the textured bark upon my toes.  As I’ve grown up, my natural affinity with nature has not only sustained me, but it has nurtured and healed me as well.  When I am in the presence of the forest, I feel embraced—I feel heard, seen and welcomed.  In an era marked by an increased disconnection from the natural world, there is a growing yearning for something that can restore balance, peace, and well-being in our lives.  Enter Shinrin-Yoku, the Japanese art of Forest Bathing.       

Shinrin-Yoku (森林浴)

Shinrin-Yoku (森林浴), which translates to “forest bathing" or “taking in the forest atmosphere," originated in Japan in the early 1980s.  It was developed as part of a national wellness program to combat the stress and health issues arising from the rapid urbanization and overwork experienced by the Japanese population.  The practice has since evolved into a popular form of ecotherapy, attracting global attention for its potential to improve mental and physical well-being.  Shinrin-Yoku, as an extension of the Japanese people's love for nature, stems from the nation's deep cultural and spiritual connections to the natural world.  This reverence for nature can be traced back to Japan's ancient Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, which have significantly influenced the country's customs, arts, and values.

The term “Shinrin-Yoku" is composed of two Japanese words: “Shinrin" (森林), meaning “forest," and “Yoku" (浴), meaning “bathing" or “immersing oneself."  Together, they represent the act of immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere, absorbing its essence, and connecting deeply with the natural world through all five senses.  The research clearly shows that there are numerous physiological benefits of Forest Bathing, such as reduced stress, anxiety, and depression.  Forest Bathing has also been found to enhance mood, focus, and creativity, while fostering a sense of calm and clarity.  The science confirms what we already intrinsically know—being immersed in nature is beneficial for our well-being.

Forest Bathing enables individuals to connect deeply with nature and experience its restorative and healing powers.  The practice is not limited to avid hikers or conservationists, but it is a practice that is open to everyone due to its focus on conscious connection.   The experience of Shinrin-Yoku is there for everyone to experience through becoming more aware of what’s around you and welcoming the forest presence into your awareness. In this expanded state, we can appreciate the beauty, tranquility, and wisdom of the natural world, allowing us to find solace, inspiration, and rejuvenation amidst the modern world's pressures and demands.

Immersing Yourself in the Forest:

Here’s a step-by-step guide for beginners to help you approach the Shinrin-Yoku experience.  Having a framework will facilitate the planning and the time you spend out in nature.

1.     Schedule a Full Day: Start by fitting the experience into your schedule.  Plan to dedicate the entire day to your Shinrin-Yoku outing so you don’t feel pressured to rush or get back in time for another commitment.  Give yourself permission to dedicate this time as a gift for your well-being. 

2.     Selecting the Ideal Setting: Choose a forested area that feels safe, inviting, and accessible.  Consider factors such as the level of human activity, accessibility, and the diversity of plant life when selecting your Shinrin-Yoku location.

3.     Setting Your Intention: Before entering the forest, set an intention for your experience, such as releasing stress, cultivating mindfulness, or deepening your connection to nature.  This intention will guide your journey and help you remain present throughout the practice.

4.     Engaging Your Senses: As you walk slowly and mindfully through the forest, immerse yourself in the sensory experience by noticing the sights, sounds, smells, textures, and taste the fresh forest aroma.  Pay attention to the nuances of the forest, such as the rustling of leaves, the fragrance of damp earth, or the sensation of sunlight filtering through the canopy. Bring all your attention upon the experience and allow your senses to soak up the healing properties of being in nature.

5.     Embracing Stillness and Presence: Find a comfortable spot to sit or stand, and spend time in stillness, allowing the forest to envelop you.  Focus on your breath and let go of any thoughts or distractions that arise, returning your attention to the present moment and the sensations of the natural world.

6.     Reflecting and Integrating: After completing your Shinrin-Yoku experience, take some time to reflect on your journey and any insights or emotions that emerged during the process.  Consider journaling about your experience or sharing it with a friend or family member to further integrate its lessons into your daily life.

A Journey of Transformation and Renewal

The ancient wisdom of nature, harnessed through Shinrin-Yoku, is a powerful tool for modern living, enabling individuals to reconnect with the natural world, heal from the stressors of contemporary life, and foster a greater appreciation for the environment.  By immersing ourselves in the breath of the living forest, we embark on a transformative journey that not only rejuvenates our minds and bodies but also instills within us a renewed sense of purpose and connection to the world around us.

As you venture into the realm of Shinrin-Yoku, remember that this practice is a deeply personal and unique experience.  Embrace the opportunity to explore and discover your own path towards healing, growth, and self-discovery.  With each step taken in the forest, allow the whispers of nature to guide you, opening your heart and mind to the beauty, wisdom, and serenity that the natural world has to offer. In the words of naturalist and environmental philosopher John Muir, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks." As you immerse yourself in the art of Shinrin-Yoku, may you find solace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of wonder in the embrace of the forest.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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Sacred Hinoki

Nature's Healing Embrace

Have you ever walked barefoot among the presence of an old growth forest?   Feeling the soft cushioning of the forest floor receive the weight of your body with each step is a deeply healing experience.  There is no doubt that spending time in nature leads to numerous benefits, especially when our modern lives take us further and further away from that place of union.  We can become isolated in man-made structures and find ourselves yearning for a deeper connection with nature and its healing powers.  Amidst the chaos of a hectic life, the ancient wisdom of a sacred tree can offer a pathway to well-being, tranquility, and a renewed sense of harmony with the natural world.  

Deep Roots of An Evergreen

Upon the shores of the island nation of Japan, there grows an evergreen native to this land.  Chamaecyparis obtuse, or hinoki, is a highly revered cypress tree that is deeply connected to the people of Japan.  It is an evergreen coniferous tree that can grow up to 120 feet (35 meters) tall, although it typically reaches a height of around 50-70 feet (15-21 meters) in cultivation.  The tree has a pyramidal shape, with a straight trunk and dense, dark green foliage consisting of small, scale-like leaves.  There are two commonly used characters for this tree, and both are correct.  檜 (hinoki) is an old form of the character and often appears in traditional and historical texts or within religious contexts.  However, after WWII preference is given to the newer, simplified form of 桧 (hinoki).  For centuries, hinoki has held a significant place in Japanese culture, spirituality, and daily life.  With its elegant form, gorgeous wood, and distinctive lemony-cypress scent, hinoki has been celebrated for its beauty, resilience, and healing properties.

Historically, hinoki has been deeply intertwined with the Shinto religion—Japan's indigenous faith system that emphasizes the presence of divine spirits (神, kami) within the natural world.  Hinoki is highly valued in Japan for its timber, which is known for its exceptional quality.  The wood is fragrant, light, and has a fine, straight grain, making it highly resistant to rot and decay.  The tree is often associated with purity and is considered a sacred tree in Shinto religion.  Its pleasant fragrance is believed to purify the space and create a serene and sacred atmosphere for worship and rituals.  Many Shinto shrines are built using hinoki wood for this reason, and branches of the tree are used as a symbol of purification in various Shinto rituals.  Hinoki timber's natural durability and resistance to rot make it an ideal material for building structures that are meant to withstand the test of time.  Temples built with hinoki can last 1000 years and some even longer.  Horyuji Temple in Nara, Japan was built in 607 AD and is the world’s oldest surviving wooden structure using hinoki, estimated to be roughly 2000 years old. 

Shintoism's reverence for nature stems from the belief that the natural world is a source of life, power, and wisdom.  The Japanese people believe that living in harmony with nature and respecting the kami is essential to maintaining balance and well-being in their lives.  The close relationship between humans and nature in Shintoism encourages the Japanese to appreciate and care for the environment, resulting in a deep-rooted spiritual connection to the natural world.   

Therefore, the spiritual significance of the Japanese hinoki extends beyond Shintoism as well.  The Japanese have integrated hinoki wood into various aspects of daily life, from the construction of traditional homes and soaking tubs to crafting delicate objects and art pieces. In Japanese culture, the tree's resilience, elegance, and longevity are often seen as symbols of strength and endurance, qualities that are admired and respected.  The tree's presence in traditional Japanese gardens and its cultivation as bonsai serve as reminders of these virtues and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

The Healing Power of Hinoki: A Gift from Nature

Hinoki's soothing, fragrant aroma and natural strength have long been recognized for their life-enhancing benefits.  As a symbol of purification and renewal, hinoki's healing properties are grounded in its unique combination of physical and spiritual attributes.  Over time, hinoki’s enduring presence in Japanese life and spirituality is a testament to the powerful bond between nature and the human spirit.  It is a relationship that continues into this modern era, and it is one anyone can benefit from by consciously spending more time with nature.  The versatile, life-enhancing properties of hinoki can easily be integrated into your wellness routine, enriching your life with its unique gifts.  Here are some suggestions for inviting hinoki’s soothing presence into your daily rituals—to invite the outdoors in.

Aromatherapy:

Hinoki's essential oil, derived from its fragrant wood, is renowned for its therapeutic effects on both body and mind.  It has a refreshing wood scent with soft herbal/lemony overtones that will instantly remind you of being in the forest.  The oil's crisp, woody aroma has been traditionally used in Japanese incense and perfumery, and its scent is known to instill a sense of calm and relaxation.  Modern studies have shown that hinoki essential oil contains various terpenes, such as alpha-pinene and limonene, which contribute to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.  These compounds help alleviate stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being.

= Authentic Hinoki Essential Oil from Japan

= All natural wood diffuser

Skin Care:

Hinoki's natural antifungal and antibacterial properties make it an ideal ingredient in skin care products.  Hinoki oil can help soothe sensitive or irritated skin, reduce redness and inflammation, and promote healthy skin.  Its natural moisturizing properties leave skin feeling soft, supple, and rejuvenated.  Elevate your daily cleansing routine with a hinoki-infused soap.  The soap's natural antimicrobial and moisturizing properties will leave your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and nourished.  The subtle scent of hinoki will transport you to a serene forest grove, providing a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

= Hinoki Wood Soap

= Hinoki Soap Dish

Bath Ritual:

Bathing, particularly in hot springs or “onsen," is an important cultural tradition in Japan that has been practiced for centuries.  It is seen as a way to relax, rejuvenate, and promote good health.  For a spa-like experience, consider adding hinoki to your bath routine to boost your immune system and strengthen your body’s natural defenses.  You could add a few drops of hinoki essential oil to your bathwater or use a “hinoki sachet” that is filled with hinoki wood shaving to your water to turn your water into a hinoki tea.  The wood's natural oils and pleasant aroma will fill your bathroom with a sense of peace and relaxation, transforming your daily bathing routine into a rejuvenating, meditative practice. Add a hinoki infused candle to set the mood and ease the body and mind into total relaxation.

= Hinoki Tea Bath Sachet

= Hinoki Grapefruit Cypress Candle

Spiritual Connection:

Hinoki’s calming, grounding energy can help you deepen your connection with your inner self and the natural world, fostering a sense of balance and well-being.  Burning incense at a Shinto Temple plays an important role as it’s known to purify the surroundings and bring forth the beneficial energies of gods and bodhisattvas.  By incorporating hinoki incense into your life, you can invite not only its calming energy, but the beauty of the temples into your experience—fostering a profound and deeply nourishing home environment.  The delicate scent of hinoki will naturally cleanse your space and invite serenity into your home.

= Hinoki Incense

= Japanese Concrete Incense Holder

Be Inspired.

The warm scent of hinoki instantly reminds me of family onsen (hot springs) vacations where we would use hinoki charcoal soap, and it holds a very special place in my heart. The sacred hinoki, with its rich history and deeply rooted connection to Japanese culture and spirituality, offers a pathway to tranquility and harmony with the natural world.  By embracing the tree's life-enhancing gifts, you can invite its soothing, fragrant essence into your daily life, nurturing your body, mind, and spirit.  As you journey towards a deeper connection with nature and yourself, let one of the most sacred trees of Japan guide you and inspire you to live a life of balance, serenity, and vibrant well-being.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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Unlock Your Inner Poet

A Gateway To Your Creativity:

In the vast tapestry of human expression, poetry has long been a medium through which we capture the fleeting beauty of our experiences, feelings, and thoughts.  Life can be complex and at times chaotic where conversational words cannot capture the vastness of our experiences.  Writing poetry is a way to pierce through the noise and connect with something deeper.  It has helped me process layered emotions and profound insight that ordinary sentence structures alone could not do justice.  Through the creative use of words, a poet is someone who can turn ordinary experiences and observations into something evocative and memorable.  In this blog post, I’ll be introducing you to a form of poetry that opens the door for all of us to put our poetic hats on and step into the enchanting world of word art. 

A Brief History of Haiku

Among the myriad forms of poetry, there is a traditional Japanese form of poetry called 俳句, or haiku.  The first character 俳 (hai) means “actor” or “comic,” which hits at the playful and creative nature of haiku poetry.  The second character 句 (ku) means “phrase” or “verse” and refers to the structure and form of the poem.  Haiku dates back to the 17th century and is characterized by its short, three-line structure, with a syllabic pattern of 5-7-5.  This classic syllable structure makes it stand out as an approachable format that can readily be adopted, even by the complete novice.  Haiku often focuses on nature and the changing seasons, capturing the essence of a moment in time with vivid imagery and powerful emotion.  It is characterized by its brief and evocative nature, and it is a powerful way to connect with our creative essence and discover the transformative power of simplicity.   

One of the most famous haiku poets is Matsuo Basho, who was born near Kyoto, Japan in 1644.  He is considered one of the greatest haiku poets in Japanese literature and is often referred to as the "father of haiku." Born as Matsuo Kinsaku, he later adopted the pen name Basho, derived from the banana tree (basho) that was gifted to him by a disciple.  Basho played a significant role in elevating haiku to a highly regarded form of literary expression with his mastery of form along with his depth and simplicity.

Basho's haiku often interweave observations of the natural world with human emotions and experiences, reflecting the Japanese cultural and spiritual connection to nature. His poems capture the essence of a moment, evoking a sense of both beauty and impermanence.  Basho's haiku demonstrate a profound depth of thought and feeling, often exploring themes of solitude and the passage of time.  His poems have remained accessible and relatable due to their simplicity and clarity.

Here is an example of his work (ume is a Japanese plum tree that flowers early, often symbolizing the start of spring):

English Translation:

The spring haze.

The scent already in the air.

The moon and ume.

 Embrace The Simple Moments:

The serenity of the moment shines through Basho’s poetry, but haiku can also be used to capture the essence of everyday life.  Even the most mundane aspects of life can be transformed into poetry through the lens of haiku.  Here's a playful example for inspiration (notice the 5-7-5 syllable structure):

Dirty laundry piled,

A mountain of socks and shirts—

Washer sings its song.

Everyday Haiku

This haiku shows how everyday life, infused with creativity and humor, can be elevated to a form of art.  Washing dishes?  Turn it into haiku.  Stuck in traffic?  Sounds like an opportunity to be creative!  Creativity is the key here.  It plays a crucial role in our lives as it contributes to our overall well-being, allowing us to express our thoughts, emotions, and experiences.  This leads to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our inner world. Haiku poetry encourages this self-expression by capturing moments and emotions in a concise yet powerful manner.  It enhances our ability to adapt because creative thinking helps us approach problems and challenges from different perspectives, enabling us to find innovative solutions.  Haiku, with its focus on imagery and succinct language, trains our minds to distill complex ideas and emotions into their core essence, sharpening our problem-solving abilities.  By embracing the art of haiku, we tap into the wellspring of our imagination and engage in a practice that benefits our minds, hearts, and souls.

ready to explore your creativity?

Let’s discover the poet within with some guiding tips to help you begin. Remember, you don’t need to be trained as a poet or be a practicing artist to create your own haiku. Follow the outlined guide below and stay curious as you explore the possibilities. 

 Practical Tips for Starting a Haiku Practice:

1. Observe your surroundings: Haiku often captures the essence of a moment or scene. Pay attention to the beauty of nature, the changing seasons, and the small details in your everyday life.

2. Focus on imagery: Use vivid, sensory language to paint a picture in the reader's mind.

3. Keep it simple: Haiku is about expressing a moment or emotion in a concise, powerful way. Don't overcomplicate your message.

4. Practice the 5-7-5 structure: This syllabic pattern helps to create a natural rhythm in your poetry, adding to its beauty and impact.  Clap out the syllables to keep them within the structure of 5-7-5.

5. Reflect on your emotions: Haiku often evokes a sense of wonder, melancholy, or joy. Tap into your emotions and let them guide your writing.

6. Write regularly: Make haiku writing a part of your daily or weekly routine to strengthen your creative muscle and hone your poetic skills.

7. Let go of judgement: Use this as an opportunity to have fun and give your inner critic a vacation because haiku is a personal form of expression, unique to you and the moment.

For those who may feel intimidated by the idea of trying their hand at haiku, remind yourself that there are no expectations or defined outcomes in the realm of creativity.  Haiku is an invitation to explore your inner world and share your unique perspective.  If you find it challenging to incorporate into an already packed schedule, then maybe you approach it as a way to process stressful situations or add humor to a tense moment.  Experiment and embrace the process while being kind to yourself as you learn and grow.  Give the process a chance to take root before you quit and deem yourself a failure.  The creative process asks you to come take a swim and saturate in the mystery of the adventure.   

Haiku poetry offers a simple yet powerful way to unlock your inner artist, explore your creativity, and engage with the world around you.  Embrace the beauty and simplicity of this poetic form, and you'll not only enrich your creative life but also discover a new way of seeing and appreciating the wonders of everyday existence.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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