With World Mental Health Day fast approaching on October 10th, it’s important to remember to take the time to focus on your mental health. One way to do this is through the act of forest bathing.  

What is forest bathing?

Derived from the Japanese practice shinrin-yoku, forest bathing focuses on practicing mindfulness through reconnecting with nature. The technique is a great way to de-stress and studies have shown that there are numerous benefits including improved mental and physical health. Research suggests that weekly forest bathing has been linked to reduced anxiety and lower blood pressure. In the age of smartphones and Zoom, it’s important to put down the screens to spend a moment and appreciate all that nature has to offer.  

How do you forest bathe?

The key to forest bathing is immersing yourself in nature – wherever and whatever that is to you. You can forest bathe in the grass of your local park or on a dense wooded trail. Turn off your devices and take in your surroundings: focus on what you can see, hear, and feel. Can you hear the rustling of the branches of the tall oak tree overhead or the chirping of the California scrub-jay ready to take flight from its nest? Can you smell the fresh pine or see the purple lupine scattered along your path? A great part of forest bathing is that you can spend as little or as much time as you want practicing!

Where can I forest bathe in Sacramento?

Ray and Judy Tretheway Oak Preserve

2230 River Plaza Drive, Sacramento

The Ray and Judy Tretheway Oak Preserve is a prime forest bathing spot in Sacramento. Formerly Natomas Oaks Park, the preserve was renamed after SacTree’s former executive director Ray Tretheway and his wife Judy Tretheway, who have been lifelong tree advocates and have committed themselves to preserving and celebrating this grove of centenarian valley oaks. Located near the Sacramento River, the 12-acre preserve has many features that enhance the forest bathing experience including an interpretive trail lined with beautiful historic oaks. Forest bathers can choose to practice the art by lying on the grass of the park’s lawn and soaking up the warmth of the sun or taking a quiet walk amongst the oaks of the trail. The preserve is home to many birds and critters who amplify this experience, and it is a perfect place to reconnect with nature and take your mind off of the world for a while. 

Effie Yeaw Nature Center at Ancil Hoffman Park

2850 San Lorenzo Way, Carmichael

Another local spot perfect for forest bathing is at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center located in Ancil Hoffman Park. The park is located along the American River and is home to many historic oak trees. Surrounded by 100 acres of oak woodland, the center is an ideal place to get back in touch with nature. Forest bathers can take in the sight and smell of native plants and flowers throughout one of the many trails the park has to offer. If you’re lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of deer that inhabit the area.

Check out these other great forest bathing spots throughout the region

South Sac– North Laguna Creek Wildlife Area – 6400 Jacinto Avenue, Sacramento

North Sac– Hagginwood Park – 3271 Marysville Boulevard, Sacramento

Folsom– Hinkle Creek Nature Area –  7000 Baldwin Dam Road, Folsom

Rancho Cordova– River Bend Park – 2300 Rod Beaudry Drive, Sacramento

Want to grow our urban forest?

Reconnecting with nature through forest bathing is a great method to use to de-stress and nurture your mental health. The Sacramento Tree Foundation is committed to growing our urban forest, so all can enjoy the many benefits of forest bathing. Want to help? Consider volunteering or making a gift to support this work.