Shinrin-yoku alone or with your friends
The public is encouraged to forest bathe by walking the wood-chip trails on the Goward House property, known as the Woodlands.
Western countries have traditionally bathed in a tub for the purpose of cleansing. Over time this expanded to include hot tubs, hydro tubs, steam baths, bathing in hot springs and plunging into volcanic mud baths, all to experience certain health benefits.
Many of our bathing practices have derived from the ancient Greeks, Romans and Turks. Now we can benefit from what the Japanese refer to as Shinrin-Yoku.
Regarded as being similar to aromatherapy, Shinrin-Yoku (also known as forest bathing or woodair bathing) is a short leisurely visit to a forest for relaxation and recreation.
The practice of forest bathing was first introduced in 1982 by the Forest Agency of Japan as part of a healthy lifestyle. Since then it has become well recognized as a method for reducing stress and achieving relaxation.
Forest scents, sounds and light have a healing effect that has been measured scientifically. While there bathers breathe in essential oils and airborne chemicals emitted by plants to protect them from rotting and insects, known as phytoncides. Apparently phytoncides have a positive, protective chemical reaction on the human body as well.
Scientific studies have proven that those who had spent time forest bathing experienced lower levels of cortisol (which induces stress), a lower pulse rate, lower blood pressure, better concentration and diminished pain.
Studies from 2007 even show a natural increase in white blood cells in those exposed to forest air phytoncides. Japanese researchers have discovered that when diabetic patients walk through the forest, their blood sugar drops to healthier levels.
A devoted group of volunteers, originally led by Goward House Society member John Hopkins, began working diligently in 1990–91 to remove invasive plant species such as ivy, holly, and Scotch broom from the Goward House Woodlands. Volunteers continue in their efforts to this day, working with site steward Everett Peterson, also a long-time Goward House member. Soon these dedicated volunteers will expand their focus to forest restoration along Haro Road. In addition to the obvious physical benefits of volunteering at the Woodlands, the volunteers spend their time forest bathing while working.
Anyone wishing to participate in forest bathing is encouraged to walk the wood-chip trails on the Goward House property, known as the Woodlands. Stroll among the large black cottonwoods, the oldest and largest deciduous tree species in the Woodlands. Enjoy the majesty of the oldest and largest Douglas firs, dating back to the late 1800s. Bathe in the splendour offered by the Arbutus trees and the large California Coast redwood, one of Saanich’s important heritage trees.
The footpaths have several exit and entry points that provide walking opportunities for anyone who may require an arm-in-arm walk over a short distance. A map of the trails is available from the Goward House Society front desk. The outside perimeter is over one-third of a kilometre.
The Goward House Society welcomes non-members as additional Woodlands volunteers.