"Forest Bathing"? Try"Art Bathing"

Rob is enjoying a hike in the Pacific Northwest forest, albeit at a faster pace than is normal for Forest Bathing

Dear reader, have you heard of "Forest Bathing"? It started in Japan in the 1980s as a physiological and psychological exercise called shinrin-yoku, meaning “taking in the forest atmosphere.”

It's been getting mainstream attention here in America lately for its promise to benefit both the mind and body. Enthusiasts say it can help you relax and refuel — and give you a break from the devices, worries, and stress that dominate your daily life.

It consists of walking slowly in a forest, taking time for all of your senses to register the experience. Slowing down enough to observe small details and foster a feeling of connection to the environment. Really staying in the moment and being mindful of each slow step.

What if we applied the same technique to viewing art? And called it:

"Art Bathing"

Recently, I've had several art experiences where I slowed down, took my time to observe every aspect of the artwork, allowed myself to feel a connection to it, and engaged all my senses. The result? I had a much richer, rewarding, and relaxing time.

In fact, everyone who was there with me trying out this idea of "art bathing" reported feeling lighter, happier, and more alive/aware of their surroundings.

Almost like being "high".

That wonderful feeling of being relaxed, enjoying the moment, and the people around you. Feeling connected to all that is good in the world.

Screenshot of Roy Wood Jr's stand-up special on Hulu

Comedian Roy Wood Jr. has a new stand-up special on Hulu titled "Lonely Flowers". If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it for the humor and the heart. The throughline of the comedy is that humans need connection. I completely agree and know from personal experience that art brings connection.

Artwork is self-expression, and no matter if it matches your personal aesthetic preferences, you can still enjoy seeing the world from a different perspective and connect with someone. Taking the time to get to know a piece of art gives you a window into the artist and how they think, which is fascinating.

Why?

Because people are fascinating!

So the next time you go to a museum or an art exhibition, try out this idea of "art bathing" and see if you walk away feeling different than when you walked in.