As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there's no better time to immerse ourselves in the healing embrace of nature. For me, grounding—connecting with the Earth—and soaking in the soothing shades of green have become an essential part of my weekly wellness routine. This practice, known as shinrinyoku or "forest bathing" in Japan, isn't just a trend; it's a time-honored way to ease the mind and body.

My Personal Journey: Healing from a Brain Injury with Nature

More than a year ago, my life took an unexpected turn. I hit my head at work, and since then, I’ve been navigating the long road of healing from a traumatic brain injury. Anyone who’s been through it knows how deeply these injuries affect every part of your life—not just physically but emotionally and mentally as well.

In those early days, when the world felt overwhelming, I found comfort in the small things: the rustling of the wind in the trees, the softness of the earth beneath my feet, the quiet stillness that only nature provides. These moments became my anchor, and week by week, I made it a point to get outside, even if only for a short walk. Over time, those walks transformed from mere moments of escape to an essential part of my healing routine.

Every week, I lace up my boots and head out on an easy trail near my home. These nature walks aren't just about fitness—they're a crucial part of my recovery. The sensation of the earth beneath my feet and the soft rustle of leaves in the wind ground me, bringing both physical and mental calm. Even on days when my head feels heavy, and the fatigue sets in, getting outside makes a difference. It clears the fog, helping me feel more connected, not just to the world around me but also to myself.

Grounding: A Natural Path to Recovery

Through my healing process, I learned about the science behind what I was experiencing. Grounding, or earthing, is the practice of physically connecting with the Earth by walking barefoot or using grounding shoes. This practice is known to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and even boost mood—all things I needed to manage the symptoms of my injury.

During my walks, I’ve been really enjoying my natural-footed shoes that have minimal padding to allow me to feel more connected to the earth. It may sound simple, but it’s had a profound impact on my recovery, both physically and mentally.

The Healing Power of Green

I always say, “if you’re down, go look at green things.” We evolved with nature and our brains are hard-wired for it. Viewing nature literally feels good and healthy for our brains and bodies.

There’s also something magical about the color green. Whether it’s the deep emerald of moss-covered stones or the bright leaves dancing in the autumn sunlight, the sight of green instantly calms me. It’s more than just a visual pleasure; science supports that exposure to green spaces can lower anxiety, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.

Shinrinyoku: Forest Bathing and Emotional Healing

I didn’t realize it at the time, but my walks are a form of shinrinyoku—a Japanese practice of forest bathing. The goal isn’t to exercise but to slow down, immerse in nature, and absorb the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. In Japan, shinrinyoku is known to lower cortisol levels and improve overall well-being. For me, it’s not just about physical recovery but emotional healing too.

When my husband and I go mushroom hunting in the fall, it's a form of shinrinyoku as well. We aren’t rushing. Instead, we take our time, walking slowly and mindfully, listening to the forest, and grounding ourselves in its beauty. If you’re curious to try this yourself, having the right gear is key. I recommend a comfortable lightweight backpack to keep your hands free as you explore. <— This is the Osprey backpack I use!

Fall Mushroom Hunting: A Simple Joy

As I mentioned, one of the highlights of my fall nature walks is mushroom hunting with my husband. It’s not just about foraging—it’s about connecting with the earth, finding hidden treasures beneath the fallen leaves, and enjoying time together on peaceful trails. Mushroom hunting has become one of the many ways I reconnect with nature during my recovery, and each walk feels like a small victory.

If you're interested in joining this peaceful hobby, a foraging guide and mushroom knife are helpful tools to have.

New to mushroom hunting? Check out this accessible mushroom identification guide. It makes it extra fun when you can identify your finds!

Conclusion: A Weekly Nature Routine for Mind and Body

My weekly nature walks, grounding, and time in green spaces have become more than just a hobby—they're vital to my recovery from a brain injury. As I continue to heal, I realize that connecting with the Earth isn’t just for my body but for my mind and soul.

If you're looking to reduce stress, improve your well-being, or simply find a new way to relax, I encourage you to start your own nature routine. It could be as simple as a short walk or a full shinrinyoku session. Either way, you’ll feel the benefits of grounding and being surrounded by nature's calming greens.

- Heather

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Embracing Grounding and Nature's Calming Green: My Path to Recovery and Wellness