Chaplain’s Corner

The Japanese have a phrase for enjoying nature in the woods. It’s called Forest Bathing and it is the practice of immersing yourself in nature in a mindful way… soaking in the atmosphere, as it were.

Forest Bathing known as Shinrin-yoku. (‘Shinrin’ = forest and ‘Yoku’ = bathing.) is the exercise of using your senses to derive a whole range of benefits for your physical, mental, emotional, and social health. It is beneficial for a healthier you. Referred to as ecotherapy, forest therapy or grounding, this exercise of taking to the woods is a true way to experience nature that can heal. And we are all in need of some kind of healing.

In this day and age we hear so much about self care. People are emotionally and physically impacted by the jobs they take on but sometimes we forget that people are impacted emotionally and spiritually by what they see and what they must do. There are scars and trauma that are not physical and that holds especially true for first responders. Self care and pastoral care do help to facilitate healing and restoration.

Our Christian heritage teaches us that God is revealed in so many ways and one of the ways God is revealed is in the natural world. God has given us this world and each other to nurture and sustain. Nature and friends have the power to heal. Walking is also a great healer. The Latin phrase, Solvitur ambulando means “ it is solved by walking” and it is used to refer to the practical resolution of a problem. Together, walking, especially in the natural world along with Forest Bathing draws two ways of self care. Another way is to make time for family and friends by talking things over with your significant other or a best friend. And make time for God in however way you worship. Praying assists you to put your needs into words and if you can’t find the words, your heart and mind will reach out in a lament and God will hear. Our Christian tradition reminds us that we are never alone. God is always with us.

All of us need to find ways to look after ourselves. This concept can be difficult for those of us who have spend most of our lives looking after others. We are taught early on to look out for others first but there are times when we must care for ourselves. The best example I know of this is when we board an aircraft. We are told if the plane depressurizes to place the oxygen mask that is lowered, over our faces first before assisting our companion. It tells us that we need to breathe before we can help others breathe. That is good advice. Breathe. Breathe in , breathe in nature and breathe in the love of friends and family, and those who care. Stay healthy.

Go Gently in the Light

Donna+

Chaplain, NLSAR