Forest Bathing, Metolius Preserve

Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Mindy Lockhart of Rooted Presence for a slow, gentle forest bathing walk at Metolius Preserve. The walk will begin with a guided deepening into each of the senses. Then you’ll be led through a series of invitations that offer the opportunity for deeper relaxation and connection with ourselves and the living world. We will come together for optional sharing and close the experience with wildcrafted tea. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

Forest bathing is based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which simply means to take in the atmosphere of the forest through our senses. It is a practice of spending time in forested areas for the purpose of enhancing health, wellness, and happiness and remembering our connection to nature and each other. Decades of studies have discovered a wide range of health benefits associated with this practice, including stress relief, better sleep, lowered blood pressure and inflammation, and improved immunity.

Hike Rating: This is an easy 2-3 mile walk on Preserve trails.

Route: This hike will start at the South Trailhead of the Metolius Preserve and follow Preserve trails. Terrain will be uneven at times.

Elevation gain/loss: There is very little elevation gain/loss on this hike.

What to Bring: Something to sit on that is easy to carry (yoga mat, towel, sand chair), journal/pen (if desired), snacks/lunch, water, and closed toe shoes. Dress for the weather.

Accessibility: The Land Trust is working to make our Walks + Hikes as accessible as possible. Please email us at event@deschuteslandtrust.org at least one week in advance if there is something we can do or provide to support you in participating in this outing to the fullest and we will accommodate as possible.