BENGALURU: A stroll in the woods had calmed minds and has inspired poets to write masterpieces. So, what has stopped us from imbibing this healing force of nature into our stress filled lives?
Acharya Neeraj, a spiritual guru who is currently in Mumbai is set to organise a Japanese form of guided walk called ‘forest bathing’.Think of forest bathing as sun bathing, you do not need water. All you need is patience. The walk has to be a real slow one, covering about 500 metres in an hour, to understand this form of Japanese medicine. However, the turn out of the event that was to be held on May 27 and 28 has been rather disappointing.
While in the rest of the world, the forest bathing philosophy has grown popular, in India there seem to be a few takers. The slow guided walk was planned for Bengaluru, Delhi, Lucknow and Rishikesh, but only a handful seem interested.
Wifi Over Oxygen
“People search for Wifi signals, but do not look for oxygen,” says Acharya Neeraj. “Most of the problems today originate from stress. All of us are aware, but we do nothing about it.Walks in nature have helped children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and battle breathing problems,” says Acharya Neeraj, who says he felt transformed when he visited forest in Northeast India. He adds that he has spent years in Rishikesh.Every city has a forest, adds Acharya. It is a place to heal because our senses are alert in such an environment, he says.
‘My Dog is My Guru’
Acharya also does yoga with his dog, who in fact is his guru, and affirms that even humans have the same power of smell, but it is underutilised.The guided walking workshop has been planned for two days. On the first day, expect an orientation workshop at Nandi Hills and second day at Nagarhole National Park or in Banerghatta.
However, the disappointing response has made the organisation wonder if Bengaluru really wants the therapy. Acharya observes that Bengaluru needs the walk because of its dynamic work culture and high traffic. The meditative walk can be done on your own, but the first walk should be a guided one, he says.
(Organised by DElotus, costs- `5,500)
The concept
Shinrin Yoku, as it is called in Japanese, was developed in the 1980s. It was incorporated in Japanese health care system back in the year 1982.
Though literally translated as forest bathing, the sense of it is “to take in the forest atmosphere.” The gentle meditative walk in the woods is said to cure chronic illness and emotional problems by letting the five senses absorb sound, sight, smell, touch and taste.