Step 3 – The Walk
Upon entering the forest area, pause to experience its splendor by sensing its sights, sounds and smells. Take time to calm your mind as you breathe in the fresh forest air. Sense the forest’s energies merging with your own to permeate your total being. As you walk deeper into the forest, soak in its peace
and tranquility. Notice the richness of the environment and let yourself feel the renewal and inspiration that typically accompany the walk. Periodically pause at highly energized points to reflect upon your goals. Take time to form goal- related images and let them go forth, perhaps navigating among the trees to gather the energies required for your complete success.
Step 4 – Listen to the Forest
Throughout your walk, listen to the sounds and unspoken messages emerging from deep within the forest. Think of them as embracing your presence and confirming your future success and fulfillment.
Step 5 – Conclusion
Upon completing the walk, turn your hands toward the forest in recognition of its empowering relevance as you affirm in your own words your complete success in achieving your goals. Once you’ve completed this healing program, you can reactivate its benefits at will by simply taking time to visualize the forest and reflecting on your in- teractions with it. Rather than fading with time, the rewards
will become stronger as you reflect upon them, becoming sources of power that are available at will. “The therapeutic effects of this program can be worth
hours of psychotherapy,” advises Slate. “For couples, it’s an excellent way to open new communication channels and find solutions to relational problems. Overcoming depression, reducing stress, building self-esteem and staying in shape are all within the scope of this program. The forest is a natural therapist.”
S. Alison Chabonais is the national editor of atural Awakenings. Connect at 239-434-9392.
A Blessing for the Woods
Before I leave, almost without noticing, before I cross the road and head out to what I have intentionally postponed—
Let me stop to say a blessing for these woods: for crows barking and squirrels scampering, for trees and fungus and multi-colored leaves,
for the way sunlight laces shadows through each branch and leaf of tree, for these paths that take me in, for these paths that lead me out.
© Michael S. Glaser First published in The Christian Science Monitor.
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PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT
April 2010
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