Cedar Community’s Spiritual Care Team Nurtures the Spirit through Support, Connection, and Forest Bathing

Cedar Community’s spiritual care team fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment that nurtures the well being of mind, body and spirit—regardless of one’s faith traditions. Its chaplains offer compassionate support that honors and respects each individual’s unique spiritual journey. 

Among Cedar Community’s spiritual care opportunities are such activities as group spiritual conversation, Bible studies, grief support groups (including one for spouses of those in memory care), and weekly ecumenical chapel services, among others. An additional more unique offering forest bathing, or guided nature walks with mindful reflection.

Originating in Japan in the 1980s as a physiological and psychological exercise called shinrin-yoku—translated as “forest bathing” or “taking in the forest atmosphere”—forest bathing is the process of immersing oneself in the natural environment with mindfulness and a quiet presence. The simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, while observing nature and breathing deeply, invites participants to reconnect with nature and themselves. 

“The name can be misleading, so I want people to understand this is a fully clothed activity,” noted Emma Sancomb, director of spiritual care.

Forest bathing was incorporated into Cedar Community’s spiritual wellbeing programming based on resident feedback and a desire to spend more time outdoors in the beautiful, wooded areas of the campus.

“Cedar Community [located in West Bend, Wis.] offers such an incredibly beautiful campus, and it’s the perfect way to engage our team with the beautiful resources we already have,” said Sancomb.

Each walk begins with a reflection question or an idea to ponder. Walks are typically about 30 minutes, but they are slow, intentional, and calming. Sometimes, a forest bathing exercise might involve standing in one spot for several minutes, simply observing the light coming through the trees or the vein patterns in the leaves. After the walk, there is time for group reflection and discussion. 

The desire to be more engaged with the outdoors also has led to chapel services being held outside on each Cedar Community campus, inviting a deeper spiritual connection with the serene natural surroundings.