This German saying, die Natur die Energie gibt — nature gives energy, is so apt especially to describe Forest Therapy, a practice Germans swear by. The healing and rejuvenating effects of nature have been long known, yet never have they been more needed than now in these absolutely crazy times of the coronavirus. Germany is known for its natural forests and this kind of therapy is considered alternative medicine, nature therapy, or Heilpraktike in German.
Definitely something I wanted to try during the Covid-19 lockdown, I decided to make the forest my destination one day and took off to tour the Kottenforst in Bonn. Being a brisk walker, I entered the forest from one end walking, step by step, stride by stride, aiming to arrive deep into the green. Mindfully aware of the deepening forest as I walked, I found myself immersed in my surroundings, all senses alive — most of all, I have to tell you, the sense of smell. Despite the fact that it was broad daylight, the deeper into the forest I went, the greens kept getting darker with shades ranging from lime, mint, olive, emerald, teal and jade — nature’s palette at its best! And the fragrance, the healing effect of which, I had only heard about slowly took over — rejuvenating, refreshing, restoring!
That day the forest was an oasis to every sense within me. It will actually take you over —only if you let it! I suggest to all nature walkers to let go, wherever you are. Be one with nature. Trees that stand so tall and so erect, their posture is an example alone to what nature gives us; energy, endurance, perseverance, grace, patience, silence. These trees inspire us to believe that come what may, we must continue to stand tall and the storms will pass. A sense of calm will prevail.
For days after, I kept thinking about that walk in Kottenforst with the German saying still resounding in my mind — die Natur die Energie gibt!
Ayesha Khan lives in Bonn Germany, she practices mindful exercise habits and encourages us to adopt a holistic lifestyle.
