Stop for just a moment and think about where you are reading this blog. What sounds do you hear? What smells do you detect? Is it hot or cold or where exactly in-between? If a window or door is nearby, what can you see? If you are enjoying that first cup of the morning, what flavors can you taste in your coffee or tea?
I don't usually carry a beverage with me, but I try to use all my senses when I am walking. The Japanese call this shinrin-yoku. Translated “shinrin” is forest and “yoku” means bath. Forest bathing is spending time in a natural environment, not necessarily a forest, and immersing all of your senses in it. It means turning off technology and giving yourself permission to take in the surrounding nature: the song of a Western Meadow Lark, the colors and arrangement of nature – plants, boulders water, clouds, the scents of blossoms and trees, a breeze's briskness.
The benefits of taking a break with nature are decreased blood pressure, increased energy, better focus and sleep, and an improved mood. No training is required. You can go anytime, but I particularly enjoy this time of year. Not too hot, not too cold, and a lot of sounds, colors, and scents. My mood is already better just imagining it.