THE GIVING CYPRESS
Facts and Questions
What is
Forest Bathing?
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In today’s world, we’ve become so disconnected from not only Nature, but also from other humans and from ourselves. As we engage in Forest Therapy, we reconnect with nature, with each other, and within our own selves. Nature has so much to contribute to our individual healing journeys. According to the philosophy of Forest Therapy, the forest - nature itself - is the therapist. We, as human guides, simply open the door, inviting you into a deeper connection with Nature.
Honoring
the Indigenous
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During our Forest Therapy walks, we make sure to always honor and show our utmost respect for Indigenous, tribal people and their ancestors. They have always (and still do) have a deep relationship with the forest, with Mother Nature, and with the Great Spirit. Their sacred values around honoring and relating to Nature are shown in the myriad ways they have integrated Nature into their cultures and ways of living, so we pay respect to them every time we do our forest exploration.
We take the time to thank those who have come before us, for they have modeled a deep connection with the land, and we reflect on ways to incorporate Nature into our own lives.
Scientific Benefits of Forest Bathing
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Did you know that it is scientifically proven that trees release chemicals that can improve our mental and physical health? These chemicals are called phytoncides. When we take a hike out in nature, otherwise known as forest bathing, we absorb these chemicals and they can give us a more positive outlook, assist us in healing, and even bolster our immune systems. This is why we encourage more time spent in nature to strengthen the immune system, improve mental health, and contribute to healing.
What is Sensory Embodiment?
A big part of Forest Therapy is connection beyond the thoughts, stresses, and violence of everyday life, what we call the “tamed world story” with its hurried pace. Instead, we slow down and connect with our bodies, moving from our often-frenzied minds into embodiment.
We make this transition through engaging our senses: what we see, what we taste, what we hear, what we smell, and what we feel. That way we are able to open our minds, our hearts, and our bodies to connect with Nature and connect with our own feelings and emotions.
Connecting with our senses is an integral part of the healing journey. When that connection happens, what we call “embodiment”, the forest is able to assume the role of therapist and work with us.
Do I need any experience to join?
No. You are already part of Nature- we invite everyone to experience the "re-connecting" with Nature through Forest Bathing. To allow the connection to occur, it is advised that you set up some time for this without distraction of work and other obligations. We will help prepare you for these Forest walks.
How do I get there?
Depending on where we have agreed to meet- virtually or in-person- we will meet you at an agreed location and give you guidance to the place where the Forest Bathing begins.
Can I come alone?
Come alone. With a friend or loved one. With anyone you want to share this experience with.
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Please pick the desired "Walk" from our list of Services and arrange with Summer about the number of people to bring. There may be additional cost per person.