“…I needed a bath…”

Fall was always one of my favorite seasons in Door County so when my friend invited me to stay in one of her cottages in Sister Bay, I jumped at the chance. I packed my suitcase and all of Angel’s necessities, which is like packing for a baby. Baby blanket, check; toothbrush/toothpaste, check: food/treats, check; toys, check; harness/leash, check; car seat, check. Poop bags, check; check; check. Whew! Here we go!

Sister Bay was quiet and peaceful, the tourist crowd having departed until the weekend when busyness would begin all over again. But today was perfect and I decided to visit my favorite place in all of the county, Peninsula State Park.

Driving through the entrance, all the stress of the past few days slipped off of me like a cloak that was too heavy. I parked the car, walked to the edge of the bluff for a view of Horseshoe Island, turned and crossed the road to Sentinel Trail, a gentle, 2-mile loop famous for its towering beech, hemlock, and maple trees, the sentinels which "stand watch" like guardians over the forest.

I needed a bath… a forest bath.

I stepped onto the path, walking very slowly, the trees all around me. I stopped to touch their mossy bark, hugging a few along the way. It was so quiet. The only sounds were twigs dropping onto the forest floor, birds chirping in the distance, the crunching of leaves under my feet, and the thump-thump of acorns as they dropped onto the path.

You might wonder, what is a “forest bath” ? It’s mindfully using all five senses to notice what is around you. Trees are the sentinels that release organic compounds called phytoncides that protect them from germs. When humans inhale these chemicals, studies have shown it increases the cells that support immune function. It also lowers blood pressure and reduces cortisol. It’s important to walk slowly, mindfully, with electronic devices silenced. To be in the moment.

Just writing this letter has allowed me to relive every moment of my forest bath and I’m filled with gratitude for this beautiful park and to be able to share it with you.

Do you have a favorite natural environment that gives you a sense of peace and well-being? I’d love to hear from you.

Until next time,

Pipka