CREATE YOUR OWN LIFE

"Maybe there are some of you who are hearing these for the first time. As someone who grew up intertwined with nature and loves it, I unknowingly practiced something in my life. Of course, my perspective and awareness grew when I read the book Shinrin-Yoku written by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles.

I would like to share this concept, translated into Turkish as "forest bathing," with you as a nature lover.

Shinrin-Yoku, which can be summarized as "returning to nature for spiritual health," began as an official activity in Japan in the 1980s under the Forest Ministry's suggestion for a healthy life. It means taking a bath in the forest atmosphere or feeling the forest with our senses. The Japanese government encourages and supports spending an hour in the forest or nature once a week to escape stress and have a healthier mindset.

Perhaps the reason it originated in Japan is due to the overwhelming technological advancements and the feeling of loneliness in the crowded population, who knows.

Inspired by Shinto and Buddhist traditions, Shinrin-Yoku therapy, which has proven benefits, has found its place in various cultures like Spain and India. It is a meditation with powerful effects such as relaxing the mind and reducing stress. It has positive effects on the brain, eyes, heart, digestive system, immune system, and nervous system, and it is said to extend human lifespan.

There are 44 special Shinrin Yoku Forests worldwide dedicated to this therapy. According to statistics and studies conducted in countries where forest therapies are emphasized and applied, it has been observed that stress, anger, and depressive moods decrease.

I believe that by leaving behind our "modern" world made of concrete piles and taking refuge in nature, we can heal ourselves in every way. Especially if we live in a country where the agenda constantly changes and we are exposed to artificial agendas, it's impossible not to be negatively affected.

For this reason, I recommend a session of forest bathing. :) Two doses per week, each lasting two hours.

No one dislikes spending time in nature or walking.

But have you ever hugged a tree? Said hello to it, sung songs to it? I have, and it definitely felt good for my soul.

Now, regarding what forest bathing is and how to do it:

The most effective way is to be in a natural forest far from the sounds of the city, but a park or garden with trees will work as well.

We don't bring any technological devices like a phone with us.

We begin walking aimlessly in the quiet, peaceful forest.

Without setting any goals, we walk, letting it flow. Sometimes stopping, sitting, or lying down to rest, we continue. Sometimes walking barefoot, which is a perfect method to release negative energies. We approach junctions, make choices, and move on without hurrying.

We surrender ourselves to the forest with all our senses. Is it possible not to admire nature's creations?

We try to hear the deep sounds, feeling in our cells that we are a part of forest life.

Without thinking about problems, life, or worries; we remember the meaning of being present in the moment.

We close our eyes and open our senses. We rediscover nature through different smells, sounds, and colors.

We feel the leaves and earth beneath our feet; we slow our brains with the birds' songs. During this time, we can do breathing exercises, or we can simply enjoy the forest with activities like walking, running, or exercising.

Now is the time to connect with nature and the earth.

Look at the types of trees; touch them, experience the tranquility of green, listen, smell, and discover the differences.

I know you haven’t hugged a tree yet. :) Now is the perfect time.

Pick a tree to hug and walk. Notice the grass and pinecones under your feet. Try to understand what's going on around you; look up. Trees unite the sky, the earth, and the underground. Reflect on the greatness of trees.

By merging with the forest, you start to feel like you're a part of it, just like a tree, slowly, don't you?

The more trees you hug, the better you’ll feel, believe me. Touch their leaves, their bark.

Say hello,

And imagine that you are getting a response :)

Touch your cheek and feel the vibration quietly.

Think of receiving positive energies.

You can now say goodbye with gratitude.

This two-hour discovery is almost like a journey within itself; it will do you a lot of good.

You can complete your therapy by greeting different trees as well.

Emotional intensity can be quite high in this therapy. By understanding the balance and cycle of nature, you may cry as you see life and death together in a fruit on a dry branch.

In the rush of life, give yourself time and try this therapeutic path. It can be done alone or with a group of friends.

When I researched this topic, I was happy to learn that forest therapy tours are conducted in our country.

To benefit from nature's healing power, we need to reconnect with nature and strengthen our bond with it. Forest bathing will be good for our soul and body, and I believe the spirit of the forest will act as an antidote to all the external factors that poison us, helping us to breathe.

Let's take good care of nature so that we do not miss the chance to leave ourselves in nature's healing hands.

Artificial intelligence, artificial worlds, lies, and deceits...

But in nature, everything is as it is; natural and inspiring...

Far from arrogance and ego!

Don't you think so?

With love,

Seher BAKIM"