Let the Forest Heal You
Save the Dates: September 1-8, 2020
Log Cabin Cafe
Forest Bathing
The healing energies of the natural world have been known about for centuries. Forest Bathing is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin- Yoku, which can be loosely translated to “taking in the medicine of the forest”. This practice was established in the 1980's in Japan as a direct response to declining health in the population. It is a simple yet powerful way to tap into natural healing powers that are readily available to all of us. Extensive research shows that Forest Bathing can offer relief from anxiety and depression, provide a deeper sense of mental relaxation, better sleep and an increased feeling of gratitude and overall sense of well-being.
Creating Sacred Space
The many weeks of lockdown showed us how the physical presence of other members of our spiritual community is integral part of our experience and practice. Not being in a communal space containing symbols and sacred objects representing elements of our spiritual tradition, reminded us that sacred spaces have power and play an essential function in our life. While never a substitute for a Church, Zendo, or Mosque, creating a sacred space in our home not only creates a visual reminder calling us to reflection or prayer but also provides a place of peace, calm, and renewal that we can take refuge in at any point in our day.
Your Emerging Future: Reading from the Book of Changes
Known in the West for over three hundred years the I Ching, or Book of Changes, is the most popularly recognized Chinese wisdom book. With its seeming infinitude of applications and interpretations, there has never been a book quite like it anywhere. It can serve as a guide to an ethical life or be an oracle shining the light on a current question or situation and give indications of future developments. One could say that the I Ching is a mirror of one’s own concerns or expectations. The I Ching does not convey truths and does not predict a future, but inspires you to find answers from your depth, your unconscious, hidden level.
Facilitated by Ralf Travis Masch
A certified Shinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing) guide and a spiritual life coach. He is a fully ordained Dharma teacher in the mindfulness tradition of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh and a member of the St. Romuald society of New Camaldoli, a Christian contemplative order in the Benedictine tradition.
His business background is as a publisher of multiple award-winning books on mindfulness and a pet bereavement support therapist.
He currently lives in Cambridge, England.
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