Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese term that translates to "forest bathing". It refers to the practice of immersing oneself in nature, particularly in forest environments, to improve physical and mental well-being. Despite being coined in 1982 by Omohide Akiyama, the director of the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, it is an ancient practice in Japan. I reference "forest bathing" (in the ancient sense) in The Falling Sun.
Shinrin-yoku encourages people to connect with nature by mindfully experiencing its sights, sounds, and smells. Research has shown that it can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, enhance mood, and boost immune function.
The practice involves slow walking, deep breathing, and quiet reflection, rather than strenuous hiking or other physically demanding activities.
In The Falling Sun, Tenshi and Hamata often explore Friston Forest, a sequoia dominated woodland on Friston Farm, California, when they are dejected or stressed. The forest is a place for them to clear their head, contemplate, and reset. It is a safe haven from the sultry brutality of the ranch.
These chapters allow for reflection. They are best utilised after a point of action; they slow the tempo and allow the writer to express the characters' responses to what has happened. They must become dynamic and inventive in their own right, however; or else these moments of reflection could become repetitive.
There is a focus on description: the five senses, as the character contemplates the sounds of the breeze on the trees, the shade on their flesh, the damp taste in their breathing, the rough bark beneath their fingers, the must in the air. Several chapters of this would send the audience to sleep.
Likewise, reflection can be a time to process information, but not to splurge exposition. Be inventive with how your character reflects. Perhaps they dream. Perhaps they empty their minds. Perhaps they sit, or run, or scream in the solitude.
Introspection works when there is a problem to solve. But remember that action - such as "seeing" the character in solitude shows the reader what they need to know - is powerful.
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