Baguio City has always been a premier destination for its cool climate and pine-scented air. Many people, especially those who come from Metro Manila, would travel to Baguio to relax and rejuvenate. Unfortunately, the purpose of visiting Baguio has gradually changed over the years. Instead of seeing Baguio as a place of healing, more and more people go there to visit bars and nightclubs.
In an effort to revive public interest in Baguio as a place to heal, recuperate and reconnect with nature, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) and the Department of Tourism (DOT)—CAR partnered with John Hay Management Corp. and Camp John Hay Development Corp. in launching the first-ever Forest Bathing Trail at Camp John Hay. The forest trail allows visitors to absorb the energy of the trees, leaves, sky and the earth.
The concept to reposition Baguio as a destination for relaxation and rejuvenation is actually the reason it was discovered in the first place. Baguio City was first developed by the Americans and the Dominicans to provide rest, recreation and wellness for the people suffering in the lowlands. They built sanitariums and hospitals for the sick but believed that the natural healing powers of Baguio—its lush greeneries, pine trees and cool wind—helped cure the people.
“This is the first time that we have a forest bathing trail in the Philippines, and we encourage people who come here to appreciate the weather, smell the pine-scented air, relax and stay longer,” said TPB Coo Marie Venus Tan.
Forest bathing or shinrin-yoku is a Japanese practice of going to the forest to reconnect with nature and improve one’s health, well-being and happiness.
The Forest Bathing Trail spans a trek of 4 kilometers through a forest floor covered with thick and soft pine needles, pine-tree canopies and rich foliage of different floras. There are also eight stations for people to rest and meditate, each with its own massive bamboo wind chime installation by bamboo craftsman, composer and artist Edgar Banasan. The relaxing melodies produced by the chime when caressed by the cool Baguio wind combined with the scenic view of the mountains create a soothing effect that calms the nerves.
Aside from reducing stress, forest bathing can also reduce blood presssure, increase ability to focus, improve mood, accelerate recovery from surgery or illness, increase energy level and improve sleep. Forest plants have phytoncides, which are an active substance with antimicrobial properties that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, microscopic fungi and protozoa. Pine forests, particularly, are sterile and free of harmful microflora. Those who wish to visit the Forest Bathing Trail are encouraged to intermittently pause to touch and hug a tree, feel the earth beneath their bare feet, listen to the whispers of the wind, inhale the pine-scented air and see for themselves the beauty of nature.
With the opening of the Forest Bathing Trail, Baguio proves that it is more than a place for shopping, entertainment and leisure. It is also a sanctuary where people can rediscover themselves, unwind and reconnect with nature, heritage and culture.