In the woods that I live in, there is a large patch of moss that I have come to use as a trail marker. It is always present and always bright green - in rain or shine, winter or spring. It tells me that I am not lost, that I have arrived. The moss navigates life at a much slower pace than I - in 10 minutes I could ruin the decades of growth it took to be what it is now.
Amidst all the chaos of human society, Forest Bathing gives us a chance to move at the speed of moss. This is one of the biggest differences between Forest Bathing and many other forms of outdoor activities. There is no planning, no destination, and no summit. It takes support to shift from a deeply ingrained sense of "not enough time" to a sense of spaciousness. The forest teachers, such as the moss, the Forest Bathing guide and the others in the group all support the process of relaxing and giving ourselves permission to slow way down and see that another way is possible.
Next time you see a plant, pause, notice it's colors, shapes, and scents. Let it serve as a question - how are you orienting to time right now? If there isn't something urgent to tend to- perhaps try moving at the speed of moss. Perhaps it will remind you, too, that "I am not lost, I have arrived."
Beautiful share, Jo!