It was such a perfect day that I Changed my schedule and headed for Highbanks Park. I needed my forest fix. Since I walk so slowly with my Walking stick in hand I'm not sure How much my body benefits, but My brain does. On this August afternoon no flowers Were in bloom. But I'm convinced that God loves Green, for I was surrounded by the Color today, from the profusion of Plants on the forest floor to the trees Canopying over me, to the hickory nut I Picked up, still tight inside its Green shell. The color is a soothing hue, I've Heard. And that's what a walk in the woods Does, soothe my soul. The Japanese coined a phrase for the Phenomenon: "Forest bathing." It is defined as the "process of soaking up The sight, smells, and sounds of a Natural setting to promote Physiological and psychological health." It's just a new name for the outdoor therapy I Discovered long ago. But I do realize that I need to take a Woodsy bath more often. |