Forest Bathing as a Shamanic Practice: Rewilding Your Spirit Through Nature’s Medicine

– Composed by Letitia Webber, and edited by Ekan Nangaku Leisching

Part 2 of a 4-Part Journey

This is an invitation to awaken the medicine within you, to listen deeply to the voice of Nature, and to discover what it means to live in harmony with your truest authentic self.

In recent years, forest bathing—known as shinrin-yoku in Japan—has captured global attention as a powerful way to reconnect with nature and restore wellbeing. Rooted in mindful immersion in the forest, it offers profound health benefits such as stress reduction, immune support, and mental clarity. But beyond these physical and psychological effects lies a deeper, spiritual dimension that shamanism has long embraced.

At Born as the Earth Zen Academy, we invite you to explore forest bathing as a shamanic practice—a sacred journey into the living world where nature spirits, ancient wisdom, and the medicine wheel guide your path. This practice is not just about being in the forest; it’s about rewilding your spirit, awakening authentic connection, and discovering the transformative power of nature’s medicine.

Across Europe and beyond, seekers are turning to ancient woods—like the Black Forest in Germany or the Caledonian Forest in Scotland—not only for their beauty but for their spiritual potency. Join us as we dive into this rich tradition and offer practical ways to deepen your own forest bathing experience through shamanism.

In shamanism, the forest is not a backdrop but a vibrant, sentient realm. Trees, plants, animals, stones, and waters are all alive with spirit and intelligence. Shamans journey into these realms to communicate with nature spirits, seeking guidance, healing, and transformation.

Europe is home to some of the world’s oldest and most sacred forests, such as:

• The Black Forest in Germany, steeped in folklore and mystery.

• The Białowieża Forest on the Poland-Belarus border, one of Europe’s last primeval woodlands.

• The Caledonian Forest in Scotland, a remnant of ancient woodlands.

These forests have long been places of spiritual significance, where indigenous peoples and modern seekers alike find connection and healing. Today, many are rediscovering these landscapes through forest bathing, shamanic retreats, and nature spirituality practices.

Rewilding the Spirit

Forest bathing as shamanic practice is about rewilding—returning to your natural, authentic self. It’s a process of shedding societal conditioning and reconnecting with your primal essence. The forest’s unpredictability teaches surrender and trust, inviting you to embrace change and transformation.

1. Setting Your Intention

Before entering the forest, take a moment to set a clear intention. What do you seek? Healing, guidance, presence? Speak or silently hold this intention as a sacred invitation.

2. Grounding and Creating Sacred Space

Stand barefoot if possible, feeling the earth’s energy (Read: Earth’s Deep Hum – The Schumann Resonance). Visualize roots extending from your feet deep into the soil. You may call in your spirit guides or nature allies for protection and support.

3. Mindful Walking and Sensory Awareness

Walk slowly and attentively. Engage all senses:
Listen deeply to bird songs, rustling leaves, and the forest’s hum.
Touch bark, leaves, and stones, feeling their textures and energies.
Smell the earth, flowers, and pine.
Observe colors, shapes, and light patterns.

Allow yourself to be fully present.

4. Listening and Communicating with Nature Spirits

Pause to sit or stand quietly. Open your heart and mind to receive messages—through images, feelings, or intuitive knowing. You might sense the presence of a tree spirit, an animal guide, or the spirit of the stream (Read: Since The Beginning, Water Announces Life).

5. Rituals and Offerings

Offer gratitude by leaving small gifts—water, herbs, or natural objects—respectfully and without harm. You can also sing, drum, or speak prayers to honor the forest’s spirit.

6. Reflection and Journaling

After your forest bath, take time to journal your experiences, insights, and any messages received. This deepens your integration and awareness.

The forest is a living teacher of authenticity. Its cycles of growth, decay, and renewal mirror our own spiritual journeys. Nature’s unpredictability invites us to let go of control, embrace vulnerability, and trust our inner wisdom.

Shapeshifting—the ability to embody animal or elemental spirits—is a powerful metaphor in shamanism for transformation. As you bathe in the forest’s energy, you may feel called to embody the strength of a bear, the agility of a fox, or the stillness of a stone. (Read: Nature Spirits in Shamanism: Guardians and Guides of the Natural World). These experiences guide you toward authentic expression and personal growth.

Q: What is the difference between forest bathing and shamanic forest bathing?
A: Forest bathing generally focuses on mindful immersion and health benefits, while shamanic forest bathing includes spiritual practices that connect you with nature spirits and the medicine wheel for deeper transformation.

Q: Can anyone practice shamanic forest bathing?
A: Yes, with respect, intention, and openness, anyone can begin to cultivate this sacred relationship with the forest.

Q: How often should I practice forest bathing to feel benefits?
A: Even short, regular visits to natural spaces can be beneficial. For deeper shamanic connection, longer immersive sessions or retreats are ideal.

Q: What should I bring or prepare for a forest bathing session?
A: Comfortable clothing, a journal, water, and a small offering if you wish. Most importantly, bring an open heart and willingness to listen.