Forest Bathing

Bathe in a Forest? You can in Humboldt.

For a bonus adventure, try the Lost Coast’s Sanctuary Forest.

Shinrin yoku, or “forest bathing,” is popular in Japan, but the mindful pastime is becoming more common in the United States. Perhaps the best place to experience it is among the mighty California coastal redwoods, the tallest trees in the world.

In Southern Humboldt County, one of the most experienced licensed  Shinrin yoku guides is Justin Legge, who leads guests on walks on trails along the world famous Avenue of the Giants and the Eel River in the Benbow Valley.

“In Humboldt County we have thousand-year-old trees and an ecosystem that is older than human history.”

Forest bathing is more than a walk in the woods. It’s a therapeutic method to take in the trees through the senses, to unwind, relax and feel nature in a whole new way.  Time slows down. Sounds and smells become more pronounced. Light and shadow and movement become focal points, whether a gentle wisp of wind, the babbling of a brook, or a tiny insect scuttling across the forest floor.

In his standard introduction, Legge calls to mind childhood memories involving trees, and then returns to the present for the walks, which last for an hour or two.

“In a world full of hi-ways and skyscrapers, air and noise pollution, a break from the city is less of a want and becoming more of a need for people,” Legge said.

“Something amazing happens when you are surrounded by nature. Our bodies are innately drawn to sources in nature that produce un-seeable nutrients. Trees producing oxygen and clean carbon dioxide is commonly known, but there are many other benefits nature provides us.” 

Mattole Forest

Mattole River

Justin Legge, Licensed Shinrin Yoku

Find out more from Legge at redwoodguide.org or email RedwoodGuide@gmail.com

A Forest As Sanctuary