Forest Bathing on Muhu Island: Discover the Healing Forest Paths of Rässa Village
“Step into the quiet, misty forests of Muhu Island and let nature restore your senses. At Dharma Resort, we invite you to experience the timeless Japanese practice of forest bathing — or shinrin-yoku — surrounded by Estonia’s pristine woods.“
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing, known in Japan as shinrin-yoku, is a mindful immersion in nature. Unlike hiking or jogging, it’s not about reaching a destination or covering distance. It’s about slowing down, breathing deeply, and absorbing the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest. Studies show that forest bathing can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, boost immunity, and improve overall well-being.
On Muhu Island, this practice becomes a sensory journey. The forests around Rässa village, with their mix of pine, juniper, and birch, offer the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with yourself and the natural world.
Experiencing the Forests of Rässa Village
Guests at Dharma Resort can step directly onto wooden paths that wind through the serene forests of Rässa. Whether you stroll barefoot on mossy trails or pause by sun-dappled clearings, the forest invites presence and calm.
The sound of wind rustling through pine needles, the earthy aroma after a gentle rain, the delicate play of light on leaves — these are the moments that define forest bathing. Our guests often tell us that even a short walk in these woods leaves them feeling renewed and grounded.
How to Practice Forest Bathing
You don’t need special equipment or a strict routine. Here are some simple steps to enjoy forest bathing on Muhu Island:
- Leave distractions behind – put your phone on silent or leave it in your room.
- Move slowly – let your body adjust to the forest’s rhythm.
- Engage your senses – notice textures, scents, sounds, and the shifting light.
- Pause often – find a quiet spot, breathe deeply, and simply exist in the moment.
- Reflect afterward – journal or meditate on the experience to integrate its calm into your day.
Forest Bathing at Dharma Resort
At Dharma Resort, forest bathing is more than an activity — it’s part of the holistic retreat experience. Guests can explore the Rässa village paths independently or with gentle guidance from our team. After a walk, you can return to the resort to enjoy a Nordic-Japanese breakfast, a cup of herbal tea, or a quiet moment in the sauna with views of mist-laden forests.
For those seeking inspiration beyond Muhu, you can learn more about forest bathing practices in Japan on Japan National Tourism Organization or explore other nature retreats in Europe like The Forest Retreat in the UK.
Begin Your Forest Journey
Whether you are seeking calm, clarity, or connection with nature, forest bathing in Rässa village offers an unforgettable experience. At Dharma Resort, we provide the perfect base to immerse yourself in Estonia’s untouched forests and let the quiet restore your mind and body.
“Step into the woods, and leave behind the rush — the forest will remind you how to breathe.”