The Giving Grove is thrilled to introduce a rejuvenating practice combining nature’s beauty with the abundance of urban orchards: Food Forest Bathing. This unique experience allows you to soak in nature’s tranquility and health benefits, even amid bustling city life. Thanks to our friend and best-selling author Florence Williams, we are able to provide this step-by-step guide to food forest bathing in your own community.
Originating in Japan during the 1980s, forest bathing, or ‘Shinrin-yoku,’ developed as a response to the increasing stress and health issues brought on by urbanization and technological dependence. The practice encourages individuals to immerse themselves in the natural environment, engaging all their senses to connect with nature’s rhythms, smells, and sounds. Forest bathing has gained immense popularity in the United States as a powerful tool for stress reduction, mood improvement, and overall well-being.
While escaping to a forest may not be feasible for everyone, The Giving Grove offers a delightful alternative: Food Forest Bathing. Community orchards and food forests, located in cities across the nation, provide the perfect setting for this practice. With over 500 sites in our network, there’s a good chance you have a Giving Grove orchard or food forest in your neighborhood, offering a serene, tree-covered green space amidst urban environments.
Whether rain or shine, Giving Grove orchards offer an inviting space to experience the benefits of food forest bathing. Want to learn how to enjoy the rejuvenating experience of a food forest bath? Watch this short tutorial and then head to your nearest Giving Grove orchard!
