Gift from Nature

 My introduction to Japanese Forest  Bathing had its ups and downs. Our Guide for the day arranged an  interesting walk through Mosley Woods in Newburyport. I never walked into the woods of this park before today. This park must be a favorite of all the neighborhood dogs. Herds of dogs, arrived and  their owners unleashed them. The dogs were all friends and came in all sizes and shapes. 

We waited on a picnic table that was opposite the children's' swings, and climbing dinosaurs' sculptures, and we faced the Merrimack River and the RT 95 bridge. Lola our guide arrived and gave us the history of Japanese Forest Bathing .

She slowly walked down a rather well used trail then went straight down by the river. heel to toe, each step deliberate, and quietly. No talking was allowed. We were to absorb the special medicinal properties of these trees. It was unfortunate that the traffic sound from the bridge muted the silence. The hum of traffic was loud and very hard to ignore. We walked up hills, down hills, past ponds, and streams. I was very glad that I brought a walking stick. 

As I walked, I had to watch the ground for tree roots and large stone to avoid falling. I found a oak tree puff ball which I put into my side pocket. Next came a very small green and yellow leaf, then some lichen and some tree bark. I was going to add these treasures to a very small birds nest that I found at Spencer Little Farm. The picture is above. It is filled with horse and donkey hair. The farm has many sheep, chickens, one retired race horse, one old donkey, many goats, and huge old pigs. I plan to add some of these items to my "hobbit home that my husband presented to me a few years ago on my birthday. It needs a few touch up items.

After our walk, Lola, served us lemon tea and gave us tiny bottles of essence of trees. 

I prefer to Forest bath in my back yard. We are lucky to share our stone wall with 500 acres of forest that can never be built on. We have lots of deer, racoon, and other curious animals who come to visit. 

I sit on my favorite chair on the deck and slowly breathe in the forest, baby birds are around, including hummingbirds, and chickadees. It is very pleasant sitting here. Being at one with nature. I love where I live. No highway noise, some cars, a few motor bikes, lots of boys in latex, and an hourly train.

I am so lucky that I am here. It is beautiful, mostly quiet, and so very private.