Forest Bathing

Posted on February 5, 2021 by admin

Shinrin Yoku is the Japanese name for an Ecotherapy technique translated into “Forest Bathing.” This is also considered “horticultural therapy” and “grounding.” Research is inconclusive as to the how and the why this is therapeutic for people and may fall into the realm of “placebo” effects by rigid scientific thinking. So what if it is placebo… But, hanging out in nature is complicated (in all the many variables) and therapeutic. What do you “Know” about the positive effects of hanging out in a natural scene like a forest or a beach or a trail through the mountains?

Walking through a natural setting is good for you physically because you are getting exercise, burning calories, and assisting your parasympathetic nervous system response. Hiking in nature assists you mentally as a break from man made technology, with natural lighting & colors, and perhaps distance from “positive ions” in favor of calming, “negative ions.” Drifting, one step at a time, along a path contributes to the spiritual process of “grounding” where you release excess energy into the Earth, connects you with the natural Universe, and offers you the opportunity to witness first hand the Miracles of Life on our planet. As you breathe in the freshly oxygenated forest air, you are free from the human made confines of vehicles or manufactured homes.

Perhaps the best, possibly placebo, effect you can connect with nature and the Divine Spirit firsthand. Not in theory or in books or on TV… You, yes YOU, are a firsthand “experiencer” of the wonders of the natural world from where we have evolved (or created) and where natural appreciating rebalances our hearts, our minds, and our bodies. Not everyone loves being out in nature. These people are wrong! (Notice my “Judgement” with feeling…) Nature is found in every cell of our bodies and a lack of appreciation, to me, is like a denial of our living roots. (Obviously, my judgements are a topic for other blog postings or even many past postings.)

Forest Bathing is an activity I celebrate on a regular basis. A walk in the trees changes me in positive ways where I can relax and be more present. I release stress and drink in the amazing features of the natural world. This feels healing. Mind, body and spirit celebrate these moments and this effort in reconnecting with my natural worldly existence. With some small amount of distance from the trailhead, I can feel the Zen meditation (Za Zen) taking form. If I can be mentally “present,” I can begin to connect with this environment and many times I connect with my intuition as I feel my “essence” in the natural world.

Most people find solace in trips into natural environments. Being by water or trees or rocky monoliths offers a needed break from crowded frenetic man-made environments. “Getting away from it all” is a common expression suggesting the healing benefits of getting away from urban areas and back “out” into nature. Even a visit to a beautiful park or garden can help trigger this ecotherapy. For stress management and anxiety control, (unless you are afraid of open spaces – agoraphobia) your time in nature is more than just relaxing. It is invigorating and recharging you with the natural “life force.”

Obviously, as I write this posting, I am a “believer” in the positive effects which a walk in a natural environment can bring to me. I schedule this into my life. For me, a spiritual experience is a part of this attraction though this can be subtle or dramatic. When I cross paths with an animal or a huge Cedar tree or flowing stream/river, my heart celebrates this gift to me and my consciousness. I am spoiled because I am living in the Pacific NorthWest and when I roll out my front door, I am only a few steps from being enveloped in natural beauty. This choice to live in PNW was partially a conscious one and partially driven by my guidance BUT fully loved and appreciated.

So, go have a Forest Bath. YOU deserve it! Feel the Earth beneath your feet as you tread in the natural world. Be present. Be grounded. Be blessed to resonate in the natural rhythms you can experience. YOU are a miracle. Thank you for walking the Earth and sharing your spirit…

Time for Grounding

Posted on October 31, 2020 by admin

Are YOU spinning like a top? Is life swirling and creating an energetic maelstrom which is blowing you about? Are the multiple life dramas you are working through feeling overwhelming or maybe depressing? Well, welcome to the club! Yup, we are being pushed 24/7 to our limits AND we are feeling it! So, what do you do to get back in control or to mellow out? Recently, I was chatting with a group of people and discussing this common phenomenon and a discussion regarding how best to “Ground Out” came up…

Grounding out suggests that there is an excess of energy (maybe anxiety) within you (your body or your consciousness) and that, like electrical energy, it can be released by grounding into the Earth. Lighting rods offer this grounding to a discharge of electrical energy called lighting… (Your science lesson for today.) But, your release of emotional energy can be very important for this excess energy may distract you and keep you from focusing upon what life requires. So, grounding can be a very important and life preserving endeavor.

Everybody is triggered by their own unique set of circumstances. Everybody holds their stress and anxiety in their own way. And, “letting go” or grounding out will also be a unique experience. So, you will find your own way to do this and perhaps, you may even remember to use these tools/techniques. Using these preventively can become a positive habit which can work to keep you healthy, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. If you do not know how to begin to find your way then I have some suggestions to attempt.

Suggestions:
1. Be present: “in the moment” Easier said than done but well worth practicing. Too often we can find ourselves reliving a moment (of upset or negativity) from a past experience. Or, we can dread an unknown on the horizon off in our future. Enlightenment is often demonstrated by “being” in the present moment which is easier said than done…
2. Breathe (Most important to help find your way back into your body AND the Present Moment) By focusing on an essential physical act and controlling this moment we can lead the body into relaxing and becoming more present. Perhaps, you can attempt to breathe slowly, feel cool air as you inhale, pause a moment, then release/exhale the warmed breath as you slowly and fully exhale. Imagine that as you exhale you can release any excess energy or anxiety, letting it flow out and away. The next cool, soothing inhales can begin to fill you with a calming sense of peace…
3. Yoga or Stretching (releasing built up muscle tension and increases body awareness.) Yes, breathing and slowly stretching to release tension can be a tool for regaining your presence.
4. Meditation or guided relaxations (see Stress Education Center) Slowly and gently focusing on breathing and “letting go” of thoughts can be a wonderful practice. Intuition can be enhanced. Most people can benefit from practicing this long enough to be able to releasing distractions from thoughts drifting through the mind.
5. Walk in Nature (ground out with each step and be “present” to enjoy the miracles you will encounter in a natural setting.) Savoring your moments in nature and then acknowledging your Gratitude for these moments can be very healthy for you and your emotional well being.
6. Stones, Crystals or Minerals (I have a small collection of pocket polished stones. Each has its own energy and purpose. You discover which ones work best for you and your energy.) Every person is attracted to their own required energies and each mineral has a unique signature. So, find the ones that “feel” best for you.
7. Earthy hands on hobby (clay, wood work, natural wool, gardening, petting your pets, etc) The Earth knows what to do with any excess energy. You allow yourself to release this excess energy through connecting with a natural, Earthy endeavor.
8. Absorbing a High Consciousness Story – not too much Drama (We have enough. Taking in the story by reading or viewing from source of higher consciousness is both healing and provides perspective like, “Autobiography of a Yogi“)
9. Hydro therapy: bath, shower, hot tub, swimming, or a walk near a lake-river-ocean
10. Gentle discussion and support from a highly conscious communication partner (again less: drama, interruption, and gossip) Also, gently sharing your story can offer a new perspective on a past moment that you found challenging or brilliantly uplifting… Any grief which comes up, and then out, can be healing. Playing a victim to your grief is not a great long term strategy so explore the amazing Joy found in the “lesson” you have been offered…

AND, spend time in Gratitude! Acknowledge the beauty and the miracles which surround you. Your connection with the Divine Spirit is perfect though the “Veil” may shroud your knowing/remembering of your pure connection to “Source.”

So many more…
Find ways which work best for you. Get a coach if you can not find one that works for you.

Avoid:
1. Coffee/caffeine, for many, sugar or highly processed foods
2. Traffic/Chaos/Excessive Media/DRAMA
3. Television and politics… Loud media grabbing your attention.
4. And, when possible, angry, negative people if you are attempting to ground out…
5. Negative Self-Talk and being stuck in Victimhood
6. Loud or shrill Humanity
7. Outsiders Expectations of you. Internal expectations of yourself also
8. Speeding through life and breath holding. Slow conscious savoring can be good.
All of these are easier said than done. So, consider these strategies and use them as needed for you to feel most present and in control of your consciousness. If you have children share these, best by role modeling…

YOU can do it! NOW, You can remember to do your grounding program regularly, even before you get too “spun out.” Breathe and be Grateful for the Miracles of Life that present themselves and Love freely (without expectations.) AND, be the role model for your children, your spouse, your co-workers, and your family and friends. This will create a healthier environment for all of you…

You are a Miracle! Thank you for being you.

Thanks for your time and consideration. Your insights and experiences are unique and a blessing, so please share these…

If you are READY and looking for a supportive community where you can share your story, your wisdom, and grow spiritually in a non-religious environment, consider Masters of the Journey.
You are a Blessing! You are a Master! Your wisdom from your life experience can have great value to other pilgrims on the path toward awakening and enlightenment.

The Masters of the Journey has events which are updated on our Facebook page which is found at: www.facebook.com/mastersofthejourney Please comment on this blog and share, if appropriate. More of our blogs are based on spiritual consciousness and can be found at www.dstress.com/blog

Thanks for the Divine, Another Reminder of Gratitude

Posted on October 4, 2019 by admin

I went for my walk/hike this morning on a gray, breezy, and damp day. It felt good though a little chilly as I started out to walk in the woods around Lake Padden which is very close to where I live in Bellingham, WA. Today because of the cool weather there were fewer hikers and bikers than can be found on mornings when the weather seems more inviting. Up ahead of me on the trail as I was beginning my first turn around the lake I saw a familiar couple. Dave and his guide dog, Sporty, were out for their regular morning exercise walk. For me, this is a rare treat.

I first met Dave and Sporty a couple of years ago when I walked around the lake on a beautiful morning in the Pacific Northwest. Dave and Sporty caught up with me and passed me, moving at their normally fast pace. I worked to keep up with them and we had a nice visit as we walked the back side of the lake. Dave is a very friendly and articulate man. It is great to visit with him. He told me that he lives in the neighborhood, up the hill from the lake. Though blind, Dave has no problem with the visual disability which he lives with. Dave is NOT a victim in any way! When I try to imagine my life without eyesight, I struggle with this as a possibility. It seems, as a sighted person, to be a struggle I would find very challenging. Dave and Sporty are a high functioning team, in my mind…

When I caught up with Dave, I reminded him of who I was and that we had visited before. Dave knows many of the regular walkers and I have seen him in discussion with many others as I have walked this well used path around the lake. Dave’s positive attitude is infectious. I cherished my brief visit with Dave and Sporty today. I will cherish any future encounter and conversation with Dave and his trusty companion. My walk in the woods was grounding for me, as is usual but it was enhanced by my encounter with this pair of hikers.

An appreciation of each sacred encounter which the Divine provides us stands out as a learning opportunity. Gratitude is what I feel as I consider this beautiful unexpected addition to my day. Consider taking that walk in nature. Ground yourself in the natural beauty. Find appreciation for what you encounter and who you might meet as you walk your path through life… You are a Blessing! Search for Joy and the Divine in every encounter you are blessed to experience.

As I headed home, I did not notice the gray dampness or the chilly breeze. I notice how special each step is when I am fully present and available to cherish the beauty of my world. Miracles surround us, celebrate these in your own way.

Thanks for your time and consideration. Your insights and experiences are unique and a blessing, so please share these…

Masters of the Journey Ideals and Principles

Posted on September 22, 2015 by admin

The Masters of the Journey: Transformational Community offers you a list of our developing guiding principles. Would you consider getting involved with our new community of support for your spiritual goals?

1. Take responsibility for your life
2. Do not blame or make excuses
3. Love Yourself & accept all parts even weaknesses-flaws-imperfections
4. Grounding (daily as a practice)
5. Meditation (daily as a practice)
6. Keep your eyes up! Look to the Horizon
7. Set goals – celebrate success. Honor and celebrate your challenges.
8. Never give up on your passion & your dreams
9. Love Nature & Mother Earth… Appreciate the beauty of life. Find Beauty Every Day
10. Learn to Listen:
A. Be Focused
B. Maintain Eye Contact
C. Mind clear of strong judgement/other thoughts of response
D. Ask Supportive, clarifying Questions

11. Be open for Love and Connection (learn to share and to love)
12. Learn better to control: stress, fear, anxiety – Learn to Let Go
13. Practice the skill of self-acceptance- then develop self-love
14. Love and Protect all Children- Cherish their souls – Celebrate youthful enthusiasm, Innocence
15. Daily exercise and meditation is important
16. Build a solid Foundation – self-care/grounding, open your heart to unconditional love & then share it – Love unconditionally
17. Oneness: ALL of us are on the pilgrimage together some of us are more conscious than others – reach around & give all those you touch support and assistance so WE can all evolve together.
18. Embrace each moment as best you can! Each moment is a microcosm of all life & all consciousness – GRACE
19. Build a healthy support team –Find Your Courage – Celebrate your process & the success/gifts of learning.
20. Find Your Passion! Live your Passion! NO excuses! Along the way, do something good everyday- Perform a daily “Mitzvah” (a good deed)
21. Honor your mentors & healthy role models. Learn to bask in the wisdom they share (or provide to you)
22. Look to Create Good in the World. Do not miss the opportunity to acknowledge & celebrate good deeds & creative demonstrations of passion!
23. Turn off TV & Media – Read – Discuss – Learn to THINK for YOURSELF!! Do not blindly accept other people’s perceptions NO ONE! (Certainly not mine….)
24. Follow Your Heart! Listen to your Gut! Follow guidance & honor these strong messages
25. If you are striving to grow up to the heavens find solid roots to feed, nurture, & build a strong foundation for your work.
26. Do not be Lazy! Consciousness requires effort. (It is worth it!) Do not close your eyes to the daily experience of life. Rest & meditation are good. Lethargy & avoidance are not nearly as helpful.
27. Never stop learning or challenging yourself… Do not pretend that you know it all.

A partner with common values can be helpful & also a trap. Do not be a closed system.

Live with no fear of Death or Dying. Or, learn enough about dying so the thought of this transition does not get in the way of Living!

Get a mentor who is old, wise, & can share their lessons from living through their challenges! Honor their insights & wisdom though you do not have to agree with all their beliefs and insights. Their insights can offer you perspective & depth to your thinking.

DO NOT Avoid people with handicaps & challenges. They can teach you how to overcome limitations. We are all unique & loved creatures!

DANCE like no one is watching! Live with passion and reckless abandon!