“Within minutes of entering the forest, our blood pressure stabilizes, stress hormones such as cortisol drop, and muscle tension is released,” the columnist points out.
This week on Crown, we’re featuring a stunning mix of late-season favorites that blend native beauty with timeless garden classics.
The centerpiece of the exhibit is an elegant pampas grass, its feathery feathers catching the autumn light. Be careful with this popular ornamental choice. Miscanthus grass has a habit of spreading its roots too eagerly in some areas, so care must be taken.
The foundation of the arrangement is the reliable ‘Autumn Joy’ sedum, a classic perennial that thrives from spring to fall. This heat- and drought-tolerant plant features lush, grey-green succulent leaves and small, star-like pink flowers that turn a rich rose-red color and eventually fade as the season cools. turns copper-colored. It’s a pollinator magnet that attracts bees and butterflies alike.
Adding a touch of wildness are native artichoke flowers and New England asters, which provide unique deep color and pollinator-friendly blooms. And as we move into fall, sunflower seed pods gain attention as an important food source for birds and wildlife. The dried heads are filled with seeds, which provide food for living things as they prepare for the cold season.
Together, these plants are showing incredible resilience at the perfect time as the garden begins to settle in for the season.
Essentials for forest bathing
Well, gardeners, you’ve been working hard all spring, summer, and fall.
This allowed me to take a little break, reflect, and step back to enjoy the change of seasons. As the seasons turn, the air becomes clearer and the sweet scent of maple leaves wafts through the air, I hear a cry echoing deep within my heart. Time to unplug, lace up your boots, and head to the woods.
The Japanese have a term for this practice, “forest bathing,” and it is meant to balance out the country’s intense work culture, where long hours and high-pressure environments are common. The term karoshi, meaning “death from overwork,” arose to describe the toll of this over-driven economy.
Set aside your to-do list and future plans and instead take a slow, intentional walk beneath the canopy of trees and soak in the peace, beauty, and vitality that the forest provides.
After a busy season of gardening, now is the time to recharge. Just as your plants have given you so much, now it’s your turn to get nourishment in its natural, pristine form. Soothe yourself with the rustling of leaves and the smell of earth, and reflect on what you’ve accomplished so far. When the time comes, your garden will be waiting for you, but for now let the forest be your refuge.
We are very lucky to live in such a beautiful country with vast forests and green spaces that stretch for miles. Canada’s wilderness is a gift, and from coast to coast, the opportunity to step into unspoiled forests, breathe in the scent of trees, and walk through a world bathed in fall’s reds and golds is truly special.
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(Pinterest photo)
Did you know that Canada has 9 per cent of the world’s forests?
There is a vast expanse of nature waiting to be explored. Whether it’s the towering old-growth forests of British Columbia or the vibrant fall foliage of Ontario’s hardwood forests, nature here is nothing short of breathtaking.
So take a moment and marvel at the wonders around you. We live in a beautiful country. Let us never forget how lucky we are to have access to such rich and healing green space.
The art of forest bathing
Unlike traditional meditation, which many people find difficult to calm their chaotic mind, forest bathing can naturally help you reach a peaceful state. Combining movement and mindfulness creates a “moving meditation.”
There is no need to sit in a rigid lotus position. Instead, take a walk under the forest canopy, inhale the scent of the trees, and let the rhythmic sound of rustling leaves quiet the noise in your mind.
The healing power of nature and greenery nourishes the mind and body.
Within minutes of entering the forest, blood pressure stabilizes, stress hormones such as cortisol drop, and muscle tension is released. And after just 20 minutes, studies show that we start feeling more energized, thinking more clearly, and lifting our mood. Imagine how transformative a long session in the woods can be.
Inhaling these forest compounds stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, or “rest and digest” mode, which increases the production of anti-cancer proteins.
There’s something about the forest that brings perspective. The trees reach towards the sky, silently witnessing the cycle of life as they age for centuries. They remind us that life is bigger than our worries. The leaves fall and come back year after year, unhurried by our fears. Walking through the forest reminds us that we too belong to something ancient and powerful within this web.
And the best part is that the forest is always there, waiting for our return no matter the season.
The practice of forest bathing, which consciously connects with the cycles of nature.
When you arrive at your local park or nature preserve, just be present. You take a deep breath, filling your lungs with the cool, crisp fall air, and begin to become aware of the world around you.
Start by focusing on one thing at a time. Perhaps it’s the chirping of birds in the distance, the gentle rustling of leaves overhead, or the dappled rays of the sun flickering through the canopy. Guided by your senses, you slowly turn your attention to details that you might not normally notice.
To help you go with the flow, here are some tips to enhance your experience.
What do you see? Observe the world around you. Notice the texture of the leaves, the play of light, and the change in color as the seasons change.
What sounds do you hear? Listen to the symphony of the forest: the chatter of squirrels, the whisper of the wind, and the distant calls of migrating geese.
Can you take a deep breath? Feel the air flowing through your body. With each breath, ground yourself in the present moment and release tension and distractions.
What can you touch? Reach out and feel the cool bark and softness of fallen leaves. Notice how the natural textures change with the seasons and ground you through touch.
By immersing yourself in this mindful practice, you will discover that forest bathing is not just about relaxation, but about developing a deeper awareness and appreciation of the changing world around you.
(Photo of Ontario Park)
There’s no better way to experience the beauty of fall than by taking a scenic fall road trip through Ontario’s parks. The crisp air, bright colors, and crunch of leaves beneath your feet create the perfect atmosphere for adventure, whether you’re hiking, canoeing, or simply enjoying a drive.
To help you plan your trip, Autumn foliage report for Ontario parks Track color changes across the state.
For even more seasonal goodness, consider adding apple picking in southern Ontario’s orchards or stopping at local craft breweries along the route. These experiences round out your fall adventure with local flavors and experiences.
Whether you’re looking for a rugged hiking challenge, a tranquil canoe trip, or a relaxing scenic drive, fall in Ontario’s parks offers something for everyone during this magical season.
Monika Rekola is a certified landscape designer and horticulturist with a passion for gardening and sustainable living. As a budding homesteader and garden writer, she shares her love of recycling, reusing, and birdwatching. Monica is dedicated to ecological gardening, aiming to preserve the balance of our delicate ecosystem. To contact her, [email protected].
