Conscious nature experiences
GROUNDING. RECONNECTING. HEALING.
I invite you to experience nature in a more conscious way. Let's take a metaphorical 'bath' in the forest, create land art with natural materials and journey deeper on a guided meditation accompanied by live handpan music.
I offer a unique combination of forest bathing (Shinrin Yoku), land art and handpan music.
Below, you can learn more about each of these elements.
Forest bathing
What is forest bathing?
In the 1980s, the so-called Shinrin Yoku (bathing in the forest air) was developed in Japan. The positive effects of the forest on human health have already been scientifically investigated and proven. In Japan there are medicinal forests, Shinrin-Yoku hiking trails and "forest medicine" as a recognized scientific discipline. Forest bathing can even be prescribed by a doctor and paid for by health insurances. Also in Europe the conscious stay in nature becomes more and more popular.
What do we do in forest bathing?
First of all: There are no strict rules for forest bathing. Basically, it's about staying in the forest consciously and attentively. In its simplest form this can be a slow walk, with all senses open to the impressions of the forest. This alone can open one's eyes to how much normally passes by without us actively perceiving it - sounds, smells, the condition of the ground and much more. If you go forest bathing with me, it will be more than a slow walk. I invite you to do various exercises. In this way we will sharpen our senses, breathe consciously, become creative and gain a new view of nature both literally and figuratively. In addition, you can use most of the exercises independently at any time to bring some mindfulness into your everyday life.
Why is forest bathing so healthy?
Stays in the forest have a positive effect on humans, both mentally and physically. By activating the parasympathetic nervous system ("rest & digest") the body reaches a state of recovery - blood pressure drops and stress hormones will be reduced. In addition, the hormone DHEA is increasingly produced, which strengthens the heart and blood vessels.
It is still unknown to many people that the forest has its own communication system. Via terpenes, secondary plant substances, trees communicate with each other and even with the animal world. For example, if a tree is attacked by a parasite, it can warn other trees so that they already can produce antibodies. It has been scientifically proven that the human immune system also becomes strengthened by the inhalation of terpenes. In addition, one day in the forest causes an increase in so called killer cells (part of the non-specific immune defence) of 40% and an increase in their activity of 50%. This effect lasts up to one week. Furthermore, the production of anti-cancer proteins is stimulated. So additional to pure mental relaxation, there are a number of positive physiological effects.
Land art
Land art awakens the imagination, appeals to all senses and enhances mindfulness. Through the focus on the present moment and the creative work in and with nature, it is easy to forget time and space. Thus, land art is extremely suitable for stress reduction. Practiced in pairs or teams, the process of creating land art strenghtens teamwork and relations. However, you can also create your artwork on your own.
Land Art is a broad term. I understand it to be the art in and with nature, where the process stands in the foreground, instead of the final products. These remain in nature and are left to their transience. Only natural materials are used to create the works of art.
It is usually those who describe themselves as uncreative who are ultimately most amazed at themselves and their project. To make it easier for you to get started, I have some inspirations at hand. Then just let your creativity flow.
I include some smaller land art creation into the forest baths. If you wish to go deeper, you can book your private land art seminar! This course is especially suitable as a family activity or group event. The duration is flexible; I recommend about 2-4 hours.
Handpan music
The HANDPAN instrument
The meditative sound of the handpan helps you to let go of all thoughts and to become fully present in the NOW.
The original Hang instrument was invented in Switzerland in 2000 and was built and sold exclusively by PANArt Hangbau AG. However, over the years, similar instruments have come onto the market under the name "Handpan". My handpan was built by Innersound in Berlin. I have owned this instrument for over six years and I am happy to share this exceptional sound experience with you.
Some practical information about Conscious Nature Experiences:
These experiences can be created in different locations in nature. I recommend a duration of at least 2 hours, however, full-day experiences are possible as well. Due to the variability of many factors, I cannot give a specific information about pricing at this point. If you're interestd in booking a conscious nature experience as a family or group event, please reach out to me for further information.
