reciprocal
forest
bathing
Forest bathing is an opportunity to remember our intrinsic connection to nature.
Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, Forest bathing is a guided experience that works to mend the relationships humans have with themselves, the concept of time, their communities, and with the more than human world. It is a practice focused on remembering reciprocity. Forest bathing is an opportunity to remember our intrinsic connection to nature. The biophilia hypothesis is the concept that humans have a biological need to connect with nature. The term comes from the Greek meaning ‘love of life and the living world”. Sociobiologist, E.O. Wilson believed that because we evolved in nature, we have a biological need to connect with it. We love nature because we learned to love the things that helped us survive. We feel comfortable in nature because that is where we have lived for most of our life on earth.
What is
forest bathing?
meet your guide
Jessica Rodriguez is a certified forest bathing guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Bathing. Jessica was introduced to forest bathing in 2019 while interning in Costa Rica with a certified guide. Together, they worked on a proposal to have forest bathing recognized as an official nature wellness practice by the Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT).
In 2021, Jessica underwent a six month long training and four day intensive, they developed a true sense of what it means to be a guide and work in partnership with the more-than-human-world.
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Physiological
More energy, better sleep, enhanced immunity, healthy digestion, reduced inflammation, lower blood pressure
Mental
Increased focus, enhanced creativity, less stress, enhanced memory, improved mood, less anxiety, relaxation
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Emotional & psycho-spiritual
Feeling more connected, more alive, more present, as well as having experiences of joy, transformation, rest, forgiveness, grief, self-acceptance, love, insight, awe, empowerment
Health benefits
Forest bathing is an innovative health solution that draws on nature’s ability to calm and restore. There are a number of health studies reporting on the various benefits that come with spending extensive time in nature such as:
history
Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, Forest bathing is a guided experience that works to mend the relationships humans have with themselves, the concept of time, their communities, and with the more than human world. It is a practice focused on remembering reciprocity.
public walks & events
In conjunction with like-minded groups and organizations, I lead public walks for those who wish to explore forest bathing in community with others. Check back here for updates on the latest events and happenings.
frequently asked questions
Consistency between 1 and 3 hours.
Walks are no longer than one mile in length.
They can be facilitated anywhere there is nature; from the forest, the lake, a local park, outside an office building, even indoors and over zoom.
Forest bathing is an inclusive and open practice that can be adapted to fit participant needs. It is not a hike nor a naturalist walk. No experience is necessary to participate.
During our time together, I as a guide will provide us with a series of invitations that prompt us to connect to our senses through the more-than-human-world. This will allow us to slowly wander in our environment and take notice of what is going on around and within us. Each walk ends with a tea circle to close.
"The heart has reason that reason cannot know"
- Blaise Pascal
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I have had the pleasure of joining a few of Jess's amazing forest therapy sessions and they have all been very healing. I have really enjoyed getting to connect with nature in ways I never have before and getting to use all my senses and experience the little things to being outside that we take for granted. My favorite invitation has been to sip the air around us and getting to experience nature in such a childlike way that brought me so much joy!! Forest Bathing with Jess is an absolute must!!!
Jessica was absolutely fantastic. This is a great activity for someone with no experience being outside to those that spend time outside. Book her today!
Jess is the absolute best!