Did you know that alder trees are in the same family as birches, Betulaceae. The Betulaceae family consists of six genera of deciduous, nut-bearing trees and shrubs, including birches, alders, hazels, hornbeams, and variations of.
Spending Time with Trees Reduces Cortisol Levels
Welcome to Nectar Yoga Retreat’s wellness blog, where we explore holistic and yoga practices that deepen your connection to nature, self and other relations. If you’ve been on this journey with us, this year on our wellness blog, we’ve been focusing on the mind-body-spirit benefits of plants and certain fungi. This month, we’re spotlighting the alder trees residing on the forest where Nectar is located, and the healing, meditative practice of forest bathing with these majestic trees. Read on to learn what makes red alder trees special, tips on forest bathing, relaxation techniques, along with our October playlist!
The Healing Power of Forest Bathing
Forest bathing, or "Shinrin-yoku" from its Japanese origins, is more than just a walk in the woods. It’s a mindful practice of immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere, engaging all the senses, and finding solace in one’s relationality with all of nature. Studies have shown that being among alder trees and other trees in the form of forest bathing significantly lowers cortisol levels—the body’s primary stress hormone. This reduction in cortisol is linked to decreased blood pressure, improved mood, and enhanced immune function, making forest bathing one of the most effective relaxation techniques available.
Incorporating mindful breathing can expand and enhance your repertoire of relaxation exercises. When done while forest bathing, the benefits may abound even more. Image credit: Laura Zeke Photography, taken among alder trees here on Bowen Island at Nectar Yoga Retreat.
The Ecological Importance of Alder Trees
The red alder tree (Alnus rubra Bong in Latin), found on Bowen Island and other parts of the world, thrive in the island’s microclimate, being one of the few tree species that can fix nitrogen from the air back into the soil, enriching its fertility and supporting the overall health of the forest. The Aboricultural Association shares this about alder trees, and a specific fungi the species collaborates with for amending soil:
“Alders have a very successful strategy for being able to grow in rather extreme places, especially in environments where access to good nutrition is limited: they live in symbiosis with actinomycete fungi of the genus Frankia, which form nodules on their roots. Frankia are capable of nitrogen-fixing so can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that alders can use. The ability to ‘produce their own nitrogen’ means that alders can handle conditions where, for example, temporary floods leach away many of the nutrients. Being able to control their nutritional supply themselves means that they do not have to withhold but can proudly shed their green leaves in the autumn without first getting autumn colour. Losing green, nutrient-rich leaves means that they also improve the soil very successfully, which benefits many herbs or shrubs growing beneath them.”
Alders are naturally water resistant, making them well suited to the wet conditions of temperate forests, thriving in diverse environments from wetlands to areas requiring land restoration and erosion control. This same water resistance also makes alder wood ideal for outdoor construction.
The Spiritual Benefits of Forest Bathing with Alder Trees
Understanding alders from the section above that they are naturally water resistant, it’s a natural extension that these adaptive trees stand as a symbol of resilience and protection.
In various folk traditions, including Druid customs, spending time with alders are seen as a way to invoke a form of guardianship from the land, helping you navigate life with a deeper sense of strength and clarity. Perhaps this is the same thing as what science describes as spending time in the forest can lower stress levels by regulating your nervous system.
Forest Bathing Tips
To begin, let’s first preface that the spirit of forest bathing can be done in any natural setting—be it a forest, park, or coastal area. For the purpose of staying on theme with alder trees for this blog post, we invite you to spend time with alders on Nectar Yoga Retreat grounds, through our Condé Nast Traveler featured signature 2-night Nectar Experience or a wellness or spiritual retreat that’s hosted here.
Forest bathing, or "Shinrin-yoku," is a mindful practice of immersing yourself in nature to reduce stress and enhance well-being by engaging all your senses. Image credit: Laura Zeke Photography, taken here at Nectar Retreat on Bowen Island, British Columbia.
Once here and among these tall beauties, take a few deep breaths to center yourself and silence any distractions from your phone or other devices.
As you enter the space*, move slowly and attentively, engaging all your senses. Observe the play of light through the leaves, listen to the rustling of branches, and breathe in the earthy scents. Whether you prefer to sit quietly and soak in the tranquility or walk gently without a set path, allow yourself to be fully present. Embrace the sensations around you, letting your mind wander and your spirit rejuvenate in the calming embrace of these trees.
*Safety Tip: Stay aware of your surroundings, use marked trails, and wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Consider sun protection and allergies, respect nature, and leave no trace. Bring a friend or inform someone of your plans if possible.
After each forest bathing session, take a moment to journal your experiences and reflections. Documenting your thoughts and feelings can help you track how the practice impacts your well-being over time. This not only deepens your connection to the practice but also establishes a supportive ritual that enhances your overall health. Pair this by nourishing your body with our peppermint - spearmint herbal tea blend, reminiscent of the crisp air of the forest. If you’re feeling the call to deepen this practice, Held By The Land by is a Leigh Joseph, ethnobotanist and member of the Squamish Nation is one we come back to again and again.
Forest Bathing on Bowen Island
Beyond the alder groves right here at Nectar Retreat on Bowen, there are several popular trails where guests can spend quality forest bathing time. Crippen Park is a beloved destination for exploring alder groves and other natural features. We've also compiled a few helpful lists that’s suitable for general forest bathing.
For a more symbolic interpretation of forest bathing and relating with red alder trees, consider the upcoming evening event, Moons + Blooms Series | The New Moon + Red Alder: Ease + Confidence, held in Nectar’s geodesic dome right here on Bowen Island on Wednesday, October 2, 2024. We’re looking forward to some spiritually relaxing exercises under the New Moon.
References:
https://www.nectaryoga.ca/nectar-blog/forest-bathing?rq=forest%20bathing
https://www.fosen.fhs.no/en/how-to-make-bark-color-from-alder-bark/
