BCDA Collective | Issue 3 2018

FREEPORTS AND ECOZONES
Therapy in the woods
By ZYRELLE DEL PRADO
John Hay Management Corporation
DDo you need a break from your stressful life? Are
you looking for a place to relax? Moving slowly in
this fast-paced life may sound strange for some,
but believe us when we say that spending quiet
time with nature may just be the best vitamin
you’ll ever need. This is called “Forest Bathing.”
Forest bathing or “Shinrin-yoku,” a form of
nature therapy, was developed in Japan in the
1980s. “Shinrin” means forest and “yoku” means
bath. Shinrin-yoku simply means bathing in the
forest or taking in the forest atmosphere.
Studies show that visiting a park helps one relax
and rejuvenate. Some of the benefits of “Shinrinyoku”
include reduced stress and blood pressure
level, improved mood and sleep patterns,
increased ability to focus, positive energy level,
and accelerated recovery from surgery or illness.
To achieve these benefits, however, you must
fully commit to being one with nature. The first
rule? Turn off your phone. This will allow you to
completely focus on yourself and the stillness
of your surroundings. If you come with family
or friends, agree to remain silent until after the
walk when you can share your thoughts and
observations.
Up north, Camp John Hay offers a forest bathing
zone for local and foreign tourists. It has a twokilometer
stretch passing through the Yellow
Trail, Blue Trail and the U.S. Embassy Gate.
Various art installations like bamboo wind
chimes and towering stones are randomly
found along the path giving tourists a more
relaxing vibe. These artistic crafts are made by
local artists. A few meters from the entrance, an
energy rock can be found. It is believed to release
positive energy when you touch it.
The next time you feel the need to disconnect or
just want to be alone with your thoughts, recharge
through forest bathing at Camp John Hay.
30 COLLECTIVE