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Join us for a restorative walk at Palisades Park in NW Washington DC! This lovely park boasts an old growth forest and stream; you will feel like you are in a medieval fairytale. Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice of mindfully immersing yourself in nature to improve your health and well-being. Unlike a hike, the goal is not exercise or to cover distance but to slow down, disconnect from technology, and engage your senses in communion with nature. Benefits of forest bathing include:
Reduces stress and anxiety: Forest bathing has been proven to significantly lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as decrease anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
Improves mood: One study found that forest bathing increased levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation, in participants.
Enhances focus and creativity: By providing gentle, "soft fascination," nature allows the brain to restore its capacity for focus and attention. This can reduce mental fatigue and improve concentration, memory, and creative problem-solving skills.
Boosts immune function: Trees and plants release organic compounds called phytoncides. Research suggests that inhaling these compounds can enhance immune system activity by increasing the number and activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which help fight off infections and cancer.
Improves sleep quality: By helping to calm the nervous system and reduce stress, forest bathing can help regulate circadian rhythms and contribute to deeper, more restful sleep.
Decreases inflammation: The aromatic substances produced by plants and trees can have anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
Increases energy levels: Exposure to fresh air and natural surroundings can combat fatigue and increase overall vitality.
Set your GPS to 4954 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20007 and park on the east side of MacArthur Blvd, near the trailhead. We will start with stretching and guided meditation to warm up our bodies and get in touch with our senses. Then we will walk in silence or in conversation with prompts on the well maintained dirt path. At three stops along the way, we will pause to read and contemplate a poem about nature and listen to a song. At the end of the walk, the forest opens into a meadow where we will share reflections. The walk will take about one hour. Socializing is encouraged on the walk back.
BONUS GIFTS! Participants will also receive:
- Digital copies of poems
- Forest bathing Spotify playlist
-Coupon for 25% off a future event by Clara
About Me: bio.site/cfang
If you have any issues, please call me at 3014377415
Venue Details
Palisades Park
4954 MacArthur Blvd NW
Washington, DC 20007
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Event Venue
4954 MacArthur Blvd NW Washington, DC 20007, 4954 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC 20007-1049, United States
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