Joanne Mason Photography

Egidio posts this week’s challenge: “Into the Woods.” He reminds us of his earlier post mentioning the Japanese expression shinrin-yoku. “Shinrin-yoku is a concept that was developed in Japan in the 1980s as a form of natural therapy and stress relief. In English, it is translated as “forest bathing” or immersing oneself in a forest atmosphere.” Shinrin-yoku sounds like an activity I would very much enjoy. Here are a few of my photographs celebrating the pleasure of shinrin-yoku or “forest bathing.”

The featured image above was photographed in Descanso Gardens, Pasadena, California. When I look at this picture, the woods seem endless. I feel myself floating into the trees, surrounded by the cool warmth of the forest.

This image has been featured here. [It was included in a recent One Four Challenge.] The scene is like a cathedral in the woods.

Another image from Descanso Gardens. Can you imagine being in the woods and surrounded not just by tall trees but glorious flowers?

These woods are in Hough Canyon, Burbank, California.

How about lying under the trees on a warm summer day? How many shades of green can you see?

Finally, here is a somewhat abstract image I created which I named “The Light in the Forest.”

Thanks to Egidio for a wonderful theme. I love the idea of shinrin-yoku. Next week’s challenge will be by Tina. In the meantime, go here to learn more about the Lens Artists Challenge. Have a great week.