Sala: “This little corner is like a fragrant library – every leaf, every breath holds a story. The forest air is full of essential oils that soothe the soul.”
Mandi: “I know! One time, I breathed in the forest air so deeply, I started sneezing… and I sneezed a pinecone right into the leaves. Right in the middle of lunch!”
Sala: (laughs) “Mandi, you’re the forest’s surprise unit. Let’s do a breathing exercise instead.”
CHALLENGE: THE SALAMANDER’S BREATHING STATION
Find a comfortable position. Look up at the tree canopies above you.
Take 5 slow, deep breaths through your nose – count to 4.
Hold your breath – count to 3.
Exhale slowly through your mouth – count to 6.
Then, using natural materials, create a small “forest plate” for a picnic: use a leaf as your plate and place on it beautiful elements of nature (a pinecone, a flower, lichen…).
This is a symbol of your forest gratitude – no food, just beauty.
Tip: Forest animals don’t need trash – let’s not leave any either.
Did you know?
Forests release a substance called phytoncides, which can reduce stress in the human body. The forest literally “heals” us – if we take the time to listen.
