Watch my video here: Shinrin Yoku & High Tea.
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often forget how important it is to take a moment to truly unwind. Thankfully, there’s an ancient Japanese ritual that can help us shed the stresses and connect with nature: Shinrin Yoku, also known as forest bathing. I decided to experience this unique ritual in the beautiful Roozendaalse forest, immersing myself and allowing my senses to be awakened in this serene setting. Guiding us through this forest bathing session is the inspiring Vianne Haalboom, a personal growth coach with a deep love for nature.
Shinrin Yoku: Slow Down and Find Balance in Nature
From the Japanese philosophy, we understand that nature is a source of tranquility and equilibrium. In Japan, Shinrin Yoku is recognized as a remedy for stress. Parks are created to allow employees to unwind after a long workday. This tradition has made its way to the West, where we often find ourselves caught up in a rat race and driven by the demands of the day.
Connecting with Nature and with Yourself
Slowing down and connecting with nature is essential. Here, we rediscover our roots and find ourselves. It helps us listen to our inner voice and inner wisdom. Research shows that slowing down in nature lowers heart rate and blood pressure. The phytoncides released by trees stimulate our immune system. Even the color green has a proven healing effect on our health.
Relaxing in the Here and Now
Vianne guides us through meditative exercises to connect with the nature around us. She invites us to sit on a mat or blanket, surrounded by the serene beauty of the forest. Layered clothing prepares us for temperature fluctuations that may occur when we take the time to slow down. By focusing on what we hear and see, we find ourselves in the present moment. There’s no room for the past, the future, or to-do lists; only presence in relaxation.
During forest bathing, we engage in exercises that stimulate our senses: feeling the rough bark of a tree, listening to the gentle rustling of leaves, and inhaling the earthy scents around us. With each breath, you feel the tension melt away, becoming one with nature.
Japanese High Tea with Bianca’s Homecooking
After this invigorating experience, it’s time to indulge our taste buds with a Japanese High Tea, prepared by the talented Bianca from Bianca’s Homecooking. Bianca grew up in the forest and considers nature her second home. Although she lived in the western part of the country, they had a cottage in the Veluwe and frequently ventured out to forage with her parents. For Bianca, forest bathing was a new experience that widened her senses.
A Culinary Adventure for the Senses
Upon return, the table is set with an array of delicacies, allowing us to savor a culinary adventure that further awakens our senses.
Refined Flavors Abound
The silky tofu chocolate brownies are a true taste sensation, perfectly complemented by the dried hibiscus flowers. The cotton cheesecake with yuzu jam is a light cheesecake with a wonderfully fresh flavor thanks to the addition of yuzu jam. The creaminess and sweetness are perfectly balanced, not overpoweringly sweet but exquisitely refined. The Tonkatsu chicken sandwich with white miso furikake provides a delightful savory note to the ensemble, while the Daifuku skewers with strawberry, glutinous rice flour, matcha, and white chocolate serve as the perfect sweet finale. The combination of Shinrin Yoku and the Japanese High Tea brings a sense of balance and harmony to the day.
Join In and Find Your Balance
With a group of ten participants, these experiences promise to have a profound impact. Together, we leave behind the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding balance in nature, and then stepping back into the world with a solid foundation of relaxation and self-awareness.
Come and Experience It Yourself!
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the comfort of Shinrin Yoku and the refined Japanese High Tea. Discover how this ancient practice can help you slow down, connect with your inner wisdom, and find balance in nature. You’ll be amazed by the power of this simple yet profound experience. Join in and give yourself the gifts of relaxation and inner peace.
For more information and options, you can take a look at the websites of Vianne Haalboom Coaching and Bianca’s Homecooking.
