The next time you are out camping take a moment or two to be in the wild, stroll around and take it all in. No intention, no agenda, just be there until your mind quiets down and you begin to see what’s in front of you.
The Norwegians call it friluftsliv ( free-loofts-liv ) or “open air life.” Norwegians practice friluftsliv by hiking, biking, boating, canoeing, skating, fishing, hunting, or camping. Norwegians are free to travel where they like on foot so long as they are considerate of landowners and other users. Allemannsrett, literally translated “all man’s right,” honors the right to access and passage through uncultivated land in the countryside regardless of who owns it.
In Japan ‘shinrin-yoku,’ or ‘forest bathing,’ is the term used to describe immersing oneself in the natural environment for physical health and relaxation.
If you haven’t found it already Michael Asbell’s blog Wild Saunter, is one long reflection on opening your eyes and heart to the forest.