Visitors to Laurelwood Arboretum are invited to experience “Forest Bathing,” a morning immersed in the senses, mindfulness, community and the beauty of the natural world.  The walk, sponsored by Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum, is scheduled for Sunday, June 12 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am at 725 Pines Lake Drive West in Wayne. It will be led by Judy Belluardo, an Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Certified “Forest Therapy” guide.  

The “Forest Bathing” walk is limited to 12 adults and is $20 for members of Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum and $25 for nonmembers. To register go to www.laurelwoodarboretum.org.   Participants should dress comfortably with closed shoes and bring water and a mat or camp chair, if possible.

“Forest Bathing is the Japanese practice of relaxation known as shinrin yoku, which means “absorbing the forest atmosphere.”  It encourages people to spend time in nature — no actual bathing required.  The simple experience of being calm and quiet among the trees and observing nature while breathing deeply is believed to reduce stress and improve health and well-being.