Secrets of the Forest

Secrets of the Forest

Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese term for forest bathing.

     Numerous studies have been done on the benefits of spending time in the forest, and the therapeutic benefits have been scientifically proven.

    When I lived in Colorado, I would drive an hour to get to the forest. I loved the experience of engaging all of the senses. The sights of the forest, the beautiful dragonflies that hovered around water pools, the critters that scampered about, and the intoxicating scents. The sounds of birds added to the pleasure, and the feel of fresh air on my skin felt like a breath of joy. I didn’t know of the physical and mental benefits at the time. I just knew that it made me feel good and lifted my spirits.

    Since moving to the Northeast, I’ve met some fantastic people who have studied the benefits of forest bathing and breathwork and who share their knowledge through classes and breathwork walks. Check out slobreathworks.com for more information on breathwork. Sarah has a plethora of information on the healing benefits of proper breathing. 

     If you don’t live near a forest or can’t easily get to one, bring the benefits of the forest to you with essential oils. The conifer oils contain medicinal properties. You can visit aromatics.com/carolyn to see which components are in the pine oils that best serve your needs. Black Spruce, for instance, is high in bornyl acetate, which can help alleviate a sinus infection. Pinon Pine is high in a-pinene, which is anti-fungal and anti-viral. The pines are deeply healing on many levels and can be combined to create a synergistic blend of benefits. The following recipes offer a way to bring the healing power of the forest to you.                     

Inhaler to Enjoy the Benefits of Conifers

10 drops of Black Spruce

10 drops of Scots Pine

10 drops of Pinon Pine

Breathing Space Roll-On

10 ml roller bottle

2 drops of pine

4 drops of fir

3 drops of cypress