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Forest Bathing in San Francisco

Did you know that a leisurely walk of less than one mile on well-maintained trail awaken the senses and reconnects you with  nature? If you want to decrease stress, forest bathing is one of the activities you should try.

So what do you think is forest therapy? According to www.natureandforesttherapy.org, Forest Therapy is a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. In Japan it is called "shinrin yoku," which translates to "forest bathing." If you want to try it, there are various locations in San Francisco where you can do it best. Check out the list below.

Mount Sutro Cloud Forest

On the slopes of Mount Sutro, a 900-foot hill in San Francisco California, is a glorious historic forest that is over a hundred years old. This 80-acre forest is a remnant of 1100 acres of eucalyptus that once covered most of the western side of the city.

Here's a testimonial from one of the founders of forest bathing clubs in San Francisco.

"We learned about the Forest-Bathing Club in San Francisco when some of the people who took part in this told us how much they loved the beautiful forest on Mount Sutro. Trees have been shown to improve health and well-being, and this Club is doing exactly that. "

Muir Woods - Ancient Redwood Forest

Get away from the city and relax at the majestic redwood forest of Muir Woods. Muir Woods enchanting world is just a short coastal drive of less than an hour from downtown San Francisco, over the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge, and through the scenic Marin Headland Hills.

The park is affordable and has trails for just about everyone, including wheelchair-accessible trails. Muir Woods provides a terrific opportunity to see some of the oldest, tallest most amazing trees in the country. It is one of the most popular San Francisco tourist attractions and its stunning beauty is a key reason that nearly one million people visit Muir Woods each year. (http://www.sftodo.com)

Hours: 8am to sunset every day Cost: $7/person + optional donations

Not Allowed: Bicycles, Pets, Horses, Smoking, Picnics, Camping, Portable Radios

Testimonial by Melia Robinson:

"My hiking boots sank into the dampened earth as my fellow "forest bathers" and I climbed a trail in Muir Woods, a redwood forest located 12 miles north of San Francisco. Even though I did not dress for rain and my feet blistered, I felt unusually calm."

Mt. Davidson Landmark Park and Cross

Home of historical San Francisco landmark Mount Davidson Cross spectacular views from the highest point in San Francisco trails, nature, meditation, a forest in the middle of an urban environment. It provides a peaceful 39 -acre oasis of public open space, a forest in the middle of an urban environment of the densest city in California. (www.sftravel.com). Feel free to visit www.mountdavidsoncross.org for walking tours.

Mt. Davidson Landmark Park and Cross
125 Dalewood Way
San Francisco, CA 94217-1606
(415) 831-2700

If you’re looking for a quiet and budget-friendly hotel in San Francisco, San Francisco Inn is the best choice. Located right in the center of San Francisco, the hotel is never too far from any of the top tourist spots and main attractions of this beautiful city.

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