Smile, it’s a beautiful day!


Good afternoon!  Today is a beautiful spring day (at least in Central CA).  I love days like this because I love being outside and what better weather to enjoy than a spring day with plenty of sunshine and just a tiny breeze?

The Japanese have long embraced the concept of shinrin-yoku, commonly known as forest bathing.  The basic philosophy is that time spent in nature is therapeutic and helps to rejuvenate both a tired body and soul.  Science has proven this theory:  We know that exposure to sunlight provides us with Vitamin D which is important for our skin and a variety of physiological processes.  We also know that fresh, natural air is healthier than recycled air thrust through ventilation shafts, although many would like to argue that their air conditioning “saves them,” the reality is that we need to be outdoors sometimes.  We need fresh air and sunlight for our overall health.

So today, find time to pursue your own version of shinrin-yoku. Even 20 minutes is healing.  

This website is a nice resource if you’d like to learn more about forest bathing.  There are some great hints for beginners.

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