What Is Forest Therapy?
Forest therapy, also known as forest bathing or shinrin-yoku, is a mindfulness practice rooted in Japanese wellness traditions. Unlike hiking or exercise, it's not about covering distance or reaching a destination—it's about slowing down and tuning into the forest around you. The practice centers on one simple idea: breathe deeply and give attention to each of your senses.
In Ottawa, where parks and green spaces are woven into the fabric of daily life, forest therapy offers residents an accessible way to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature. From the Rideau Canal to Gatineau Park just across the river, the Ottawa region has no shortage of forest environments perfect for this meditative practice.
How to Practice Forest Therapy in Ottawa
Starting a forest therapy practice in Ottawa is straightforward. Choose any local park or trail—the Arboretum, Greenbelt trails, or Gatineau Park are ideal—and set aside 20 to 30 minutes with no rush. The goal isn't to exercise; it's to be present.
Begin by tuning into your surroundings. Notice the canopy overhead, the play of light through leaves, and the texture of bark on tree trunks. Engage all five senses: listen to birdsong and rustling leaves, smell the earth and evergreen scents, feel the temperature and humidity on your skin, and observe the subtle colors and patterns of the forest floor.
Deep breathing is central to the practice. As you walk slowly through the forest, focus on taking deliberate, slow breaths. This conscious breathing helps calm your nervous system and deepens your connection to the environment. There's no right or wrong way to do it—simply being present and attentive is what matters.
The Ottawa Advantage
Ottawa's location and geography make it uniquely suited for forest therapy. The city's extensive park system, including protected forest corridors, offers countless opportunities to step away from urban bustle. Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast or someone looking for a gentler way to engage with nature, Ottawa's parks provide accessible entry points.
The practice also pairs well with Ottawa's seasons. Spring forests are alive with new growth and birdsong, summer forests offer cool refuge, autumn brings vibrant colors, and winter forests reveal hidden patterns beneath snow. Each season offers a different sensory experience.
A Wellness Trend Takes Root
As more Ottawans seek stress relief and mental wellness outside of screens and gyms, forest therapy is gaining traction. It requires no special equipment, no membership, and no previous experience. All you need is access to a forest and willingness to slow down.
Whether you're looking to establish a regular wellness practice or simply want a new way to experience Ottawa's natural spaces, forest therapy invites you to step into the forest, breathe deeply, and let your senses guide the way.
Source: Ottawa Citizen
