Shinrin-yoku is an experiential practice, just like yoga, meditation, or a martial art.
- Reading about it can provide inspiration and instruction, but won’t give you the experience.
- Guided practice with an instructor is beneficial to start and/or deepen your practice, and gives you the opportunity to experience new sites or seasons with support.
- Developing a habit of personal practice will yield the greatest benefits for your mental and physical health.
- If you like, invite a friend to join you in your practice!
Recommended Sites for Shinrin-Yoku
Urban Parks
- Crosby Farm Regional Park (map to North parking lot or larger South parking lot by pavilion)
- Hidden Falls Regional Park (map to North entrance)
- Como Outdoor Woodland Classroom (map to parking along Como Ave)
- Fort Snelling State Park (map) — I recommend heading to Pike Island to reduce bridge traffic noise.
- Minnehaha Falls Lower Glen Trail (map)
- Bass Ponds Trails of the Minnesota River Valley National Wildlife Refuge (map)
Wilder Places
Northwest Metro:
Southeast Metro:
- Dodge Nature Center (map)
Resources for Personal Shinrin-Yoku Practice
I encourage my class participants to try this practice weekly in a nearby park. To support your personal practice, you may use the written and/or audio instructions below. These were originally designed for Crosby Farm Regional Park, but can easily be applied to other parks in Saint Paul.
- Written instructions — print or download to your phone before you visit the park.
- Audio instructions (54 minutes) — download to your phone before visiting the park, and pack your earbuds. Place an earbud in one ear before starting the recording.
Traveling to the North Woods this summer? Try these invitations at the cabin.
Books to Inform Your Practice
Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness by Dr. Qing Li (Bookshop, Amazon)
Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer (Bookshop, Amazon)