Relaxation for body and mind

"Taking a bath in the atmosphere of the forest". This is how the Japanese health trend Shinrin Yoku can be translated - or simply: forest bathing.

Who doesn't know the revitalizing feeling that comes over you when you breathe in the fresh air during a short walk in the forest and immediately feel much more relaxed and balanced? The forest has an enormous healing potential, because in addition to relaxation, it provides stimulation without being too demanding. In a mindful interaction with the forest, one can rediscover one's natural balance.

Here are three exercise suggestions for you:

1 Feel your roots

Find a comfortable place in the forest, where you can stand safely and steadily. You are also invited to take off your shoes. Close your eyes. Now consciously pay attention to your breath flow and feel how you absorb energy from the forest air with each inhalation and how you let the blockages and stress flow away with each exhalation.

2 Sensory journey

For this exercise, too, first find a comfortable place. Breathe in and out deeply three times and then focus your attention on each sense in turn. What do you see? Look at the forest around you. Then close your eyes. What do you hear? Keep your eyes closed and then try to feel the forest atmosphere. What do you feel? Finally, take a few deep breaths. What do you smell?

3 Mindful walking at a snail's pace

Choose a path in the forest and move forward as mindfully as possible. Try to feel every movement - every step, every push and roll of the foot. Does the forest floor feel dry, damp, cold, warm, soft or uneven? What can you feel under your feet?