Move Over Sunbathing; Have You Tried Forest Bathing?

What if I told you that there's a hidden oasis of relaxation, without the scorching UV rays and pesky sand, where you can disconnect from everyday noise and reconnect with nature? It’s time to try forest bathing!

What is Forest Bathing?

No, it's not taking a bath amidst the trees (though that could be quite an adventure!). Forest bathing, or "Shinrin-yoku" as it's known in Japan, is the practice of immersing yourself in the soothing embrace of nature, particularly the forest. It's not a bath in the traditional sense but more like a sensory soak in nature's serene beauty. The term was coined in Japan in the 1980s and has since gained popularity as an alternative form of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Not Your Average Hike

Unlike hiking or trekking, forest bathing doesn't involve conquering peaks or covering vast distances. It's a slow, mindful, and meditative experience. Imagine strolling leisurely through the woods, allowing yourself to be fully present in the moment, and embracing the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the forest. It's a chance to let go of stress, quiet the mind, and connect with nature on a deeper level.

Benefits of Forest Bathing

Beyond the obvious appeal of a relaxing experience (ecotherapy, anyone?), the forest air is filled with phytoncides, natural chemicals that support the immune system. Immersing yourself in nature can spark creativity and improve focus and clarity of thought. Being in nature also promotes better sleep quality, leading to more restorative rest.

How to Engage in Forest Bathing: A Gentle Guide

Choose your Destination: Find a forest or wooded area near you. It could be a local park, nature reserve, or any green space with plenty of trees. The more diverse the flora, the better.

Gear Up: You don’t need much; just be sure to dress for the weather, and consider bringing a picnic blanket, a journal with a pen, and snacks and water if you’ll be out for a while.

Disconnect to Reconnect: Leave behind the distractions of technology. Turn off your phone or put it on silent. This is your time to be present with nature, not with screens.

Use All Your Senses: As you walk, engage all your senses. Notice the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, the earthy aroma of the forest floor, and the feel of the bark against your fingertips. You can even place your bare feet on the earth for a “grounding” experience.

Find Your Spot: When you feel drawn to a particular spot, pause and stay there for a while. It could be near a stream, under a majestic tree, or wherever you feel most comfortable.

Be Mindful: Let your thoughts come and go like leaves floating downstream. Be fully present in the moment and observe without judgment.

Stunning Forest Bathing Destinations

The United States boasts an abundance of natural wonders, and several places are perfect for indulging in the magic of forest bathing, including:

  • Redwood National and State Parks, California

  • Acadia National Park, Maine

  • Olympic National Park, Washington

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, and North Carolina

  • Adirondack Park, New York

If you're planning to venture into a new or remote region for your forest bathing experience, it's wise to consider making it a group excursion for added safety. Fortunately, there's a growing availability of guided tours that can enhance your forest bathing journey, such as this one in Asheville, North Carolina, or this one in Honolulu, Hawaii.

However, you don’t need to embark on grand journeys to far-off destinations for a transformative experience. Whether you choose to wander alone or gather friends, start by taking small, mindful steps right in your local area. Explore the nearby parks, meander through wooded areas, and let the enchanting beauty of nature surround you. Happy forest bathing!

 xx, Danae

6 Simple Steps to Creating a Picture-Perfect Picnic

There's nothing quite like a picnic, is there? It’s the ultimate flexible and wallet-friendly way to enjoy all kinds of different settings in the great outdoors and soak up some much-needed vitamin D. Picnics are the perfect way to spend an afternoon with friends, family, or a romantic date, no reservation necessary. You can stay as long as you’d like, and you have complete control over the menu. Oh, and done right, it’s irresistible Instagram material. As interior designers, we often can’t pass up an opportunity to style a shoot.

So, whether you're a seasoned picnic pro or amateur, I'm here to share my checklist that will make your picnic prep quick and carefree.

1. Scout the right setting

A successful picnic is all about enjoying the atmosphere, so scope out the location and check the weather ahead of time (even though you never know). Some common–for good reason–picnic destinations include a local park, beach, or riverfront. But you can also search near you for lookout points, botanical gardens, vineyards, rooftops, boats for rent, or even farms that are open to visitors. Just make sure there’s a nice, even surface to set up on, preferably far from any traffic, and check for any local restrictions or regulations that might affect your picnic plans, such as no-alcohol or pet-free zones.

2. Make up the menu

It may be easiest to pitch the potluck approach, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you’re aiming for an aesthetic picnic, you might need to take charge. Choose items that are easy to serve and won't spoil or melt in the sun, but also consider their presentation.

One favorite option is a simple cheese and charcuterie board (on a cute cutting board, of course). Another great option is a DIY sandwich bar with fresh bread, meats, cheeses, and condiments. Olives and nuts make great finger snacks. Mason jar salads, a crudité platter with hummus or other dip, or colorful veggie chips are healthy additions, and fruit skewers or chocolate-dipped strawberries for dessert. Some great drink options are cucumber water, fresh-squeezed lemonade, flavored kombucha, wine or champagne. Remember to bring a cooler with ice!

3. Serve sustainably

Taking a cue from the mason jar salad idea, using eco-friendly supplies is a must for any responsible picnic-goer. Opt for reusable plates, cups, and utensils made from materials like bamboo or stainless steel. Glass champagne glasses can add an elegant touch to any picnic, unless you have small children or pets running around. Consider investing in a set of reusable cloth napkins. Not only do they look cute and Instagram-worthy, but they're also much more environmentally friendly than their paper counterparts. All of these items can be washed and reused for future picnics, reducing waste and saving you money in the long run.

4. Create a cozy atmosphere

Being comfortable is essential to really enjoying the experience, and no one wants to sit on a hard, bumpy surface for even 5 minutes. Bring enough cushions for each person to sit on, and even a few extra blankets for the ground or in case it gets chilly. Or bring foldable chairs and a table, if sitting on the ground isn’t your thing. Consider bringing a portable shade canopy or umbrella to provide an escape from strong rays. And if you're worried about pesky bugs, light a citronella candle and keep food covered when possible. Pro tip: sprinkle chalk or talcum powder around your picnic blanket–or use a DIY bug spray with essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint with water–which deter ants from crashing your party.

5. Add low-maintenance activities

While eating and chatting the afternoon away may be more than enough to keep you busy, it can be fun to play some games. With so much already going on, you’ll want to keep these activities low-maintenance. So choose simple games like frisbee, fishbowl, charades, giant jenga, cornhole, or a deck of cards (beware of windy days!) that can provide hours of entertainment without too much setup or clean up. Another great option is to bring along a Bluetooth speaker and put on a collaborative playlist (be sure not to disturb others nearby). For a more serene vibe, activities like yoga or painting can be a fun addition. Or if you must go all out, why not set up an outdoor cinema with a portable projector?

6. Style the shot

Every element mentioned above is an opportunity for a visually appealing addition to your picnic scene. So think about what theme or color scheme you’d like to follow. Romantic Mediterranean? Colorful hippie? Sweet and rustic? Starting with the quintessential picnic item, your picnic blanket, and choose matching cushions. A classic wicker picnic basket is always charming, or opt for a more contemporary take. Other items that can serve as props in your photos include cute serving trays, fresh flowers or greenery, straw hats, sunglasses, books, or even someone’s bike! Remove unappealing objects such as any wrappers, phones, or other personal items that only add clutter. Take photos at different times to catch flattering lighting, such as the golden hour. Try photographing your picnic from a variety of perspectives, including from above, showing a bit more of the environment, and of course, including your loved ones to capture the wonderful memory.

Picnicking isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that allows you to enjoy the great outdoors and create lasting memories with your loved ones. By following these tips, you can elevate your picnic game and create a delightful setting that reflects your personal style. Remember to be flexible, and don't worry too much about the small details. So grab your picnic basket, embrace the spontaneity, and have fun every step of the way.

Happy picnicking!

xx, Danae

Lesser-Known Travel Destinations for Interior Design Lovers!

Maybe you are fortunate enough to have already visited some of the most famous travel destinations, or perhaps you are someone who prefers to explore off the beaten track. Either way, I’ve curated a list of eight alternative destinations that offer a wealth of attractions for enthusiasts of interior design and architecture, promising an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.

Instead of: Mexico City, Mexico

  • While both cities feature colorful facades and wrought-iron balconies, San Miguel de Allende stands out for its colonial-era charm. With Baroque and Neoclassical architecture, ornate churches, elegant mansions, and cobblestone streets, this small town in the mountains of central Mexico is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its flower-filled courtyards and charming small-town feel.

 

Instead of: Jaipur, India

  • Each city having its own unique style of architecture and design, Chandigarh is renowned for its modernist utopia. Designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s, Chandigarh features functional, minimalist design, bold geometric architecture, and innovative design solutions. Some of the notable landmarks in Chandigarh include the Capitol Complex, the Open Hand Monument, and the Palace of Assembly, which showcase the city's pioneering modernist aesthetic. In addition to its architectural marvels, Chandigarh is also known for its beautiful gardens, such as the Rose Garden and the Rock Garden, and its bustling markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts and textiles.

Instead of: Amsterdam, Netherlands

  • While both are Dutch cities that offer a mix of historic and modernist architecture, Rotterdam is known for its cutting-edge architecture and innovative design. Rotterdam is home to a number of stunning architectural marvels such as the Cube Houses, which are a set of innovative homes designed by architect Piet Blom, and the iconic Erasmus Bridge, which spans the River Maas and is a symbol of the city's modernity.

 

Instead of: Istanbul, Turkey

  • Both cities offer a mix of historic and modern architecture, with a strong influence from the Ottoman and Persian empires. Tbilisi is less well-known than Istanbul, but it offers a similar blend of cultures and a unique architectural style. One of the must-visit points of interest in Tbilisi is the Narikala Fortress, a medieval castle that sits on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Instead of: Copenhagen, Denmark

  • Helsinki and Copenhagen are both Nordic cities that boast impressive design and architecture, but Helsinki is known for its Art Nouveau architecture and its Finnish design heritage. The Design Museum in Helsinki is a great place to explore Finnish design history and contemporary design, while the Arabia Factory, located just outside the city center, is a hub of Finnish ceramics and design. The Finnish capital is also home to some of the most interesting examples of modernist architecture in the world, such as the Temppeliaukio Church and the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art.

 

Instead of: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

  • Both cities offer a mix of modern and traditional architecture, with a focus on luxury and high-end design. Baku is less well-known than Dubai, but it offers a similar mix of opulence and modernity. One of the most stunning architectural attractions in Baku is the Flame Towers, a trio of skyscrapers that are covered in LED screens that display images of flames, making them look like they're actually on fire. In addition, the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center, designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid, is a stunning example of contemporary architecture and design.

Instead of: Barcelona, Spain

  • Both cities offer a mix of Gothic, modernist, and contemporary architecture, but Valencia is less crowded and touristy than Barcelona, and its architecture is arguably more diverse and less well-known. Valencia is also known for the work of architect Santiago Calatrava, whose futuristic designs can be seen in the City of Arts and Sciences, a complex of cultural and architectural wonders that includes the Hemisfèric planetarium, the Oceanogràfic aquarium, and the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofia opera house.

 

Instead of: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

  • While both cities have their own charm, Brasilia is a modernist utopia that is unlike any other city in Brazil. The entire city was planned and built from scratch in the late 1950s, with bold geometric shapes, concrete structures, and innovative design solutions. The city's master plan was designed by the famous Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer and, once again, Le Corbusier. Despite being the capital city, it is often overshadowed by Rio de Janeiro as a tourist destination, but it is well worth a visit.

 

Happy Traveling!

xx, Danae

Shop The Look: Gardening!

With spring in full swing, it's time to start thinking about gardening! We have collected a few of our favorite gardening items for our latest Shop the Look board! Come shopping with us!