In today's fast-paced world, many people find themselves constantly connected, constantly busy, and constantly distracted. Between work, family responsibilities, social media, and endless notifications, finding a moment of genuine peace can feel increasingly difficult. When stress begins to build, many of us dream of escaping to the mountains, taking a vacation, or finding a quiet place far from the city. What many Calgarians may not realize is that one of the city's most powerful opportunities for rest, reflection, and renewal is hidden right within Calgary itself.
Nestled along the banks of the Bow River, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is home to Calgary's first official Forest Bathing Trail. Certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT), this unique trail offers visitors an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the scientifically supported benefits of Forest Therapy without ever leaving the city.
What Is Forest Bathing?
Despite the name, forest bathing has nothing to do with water. The practice originated in Japan during the 1980s and is known as Shinrin-yoku, which translates to "bathing in the forest atmosphere."
Forest bathing was developed as a response to increasing levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout among urban populations. Unlike hiking, jogging, birdwatching, or nature photography, forest bathing is not focused on exercise, speed, distance, or reaching a destination. Instead, it invites people to slow down and become fully present by engaging all of their senses.
The practice encourages participants to notice what they see, hear, smell, touch, and even taste while spending intentional time in a natural environment. The goal is remarkably simple: to be present and allow nature to do what it has done for thousands of years, support human well-being.
The Science Behind Forest Therapy
While the concept may sound simple, the science behind Forest Therapy continues to grow.
Trees and plants release natural compounds known as phytoncides. These organic compounds help protect plants from insects, bacteria, and disease. Research has shown that when humans spend time in forest environments and breathe in these compounds, a variety of positive physiological responses can occur.
Studies suggest that spending time in nature can reduce cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone. Forest environments may also help lower blood pressure, support immune function, improve mood, and promote relaxation. Many participants report feeling calmer, more focused, mentally refreshed, and emotionally balanced after spending time in a natural setting.
Beyond the physical benefits, Forest Therapy encourages a shift away from constant thinking and problem-solving. By engaging the senses, participants often experience improved concentration, increased creativity, and a greater sense of connection to themselves and the world around them.
Why the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary Is the Perfect Setting
The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is one of Calgary's most treasured natural spaces. Covering approximately 36 hectares of protected habitat, the sanctuary features mature forests, wetlands, lagoons, and riverside pathways that provide a peaceful escape from the surrounding city.
More than 347 species of plants have been identified within the sanctuary, while hundreds of bird species visit or reside there throughout the year. The combination of towering trees, flowing water, diverse wildlife, and natural quiet creates an ideal environment for Forest Therapy.
The Forest Bathing Trail itself is a one-kilometre loop that guides visitors through some of the sanctuary's most beautiful areas. While the distance can be walked in a matter of minutes, visitors are encouraged to take their time and spend between 90 minutes and two hours fully immersing themselves in the experience.
Beginning Your Forest Bathing Experience
The journey begins at the trailhead, where visitors are introduced to the Forest Bathing Trail and its unique features.
One thoughtful addition provided by the City of Calgary is a collection of complimentary seating mats and tarps available for visitors to borrow. These allow participants to comfortably sit, rest, or even lie down during their experience, creating opportunities for deeper connection with the surrounding environment.
Along the trail, five guided sensory stations invite visitors to slow down and explore nature in a more intentional way. Each station offers prompts and invitations designed to help participants engage their senses and deepen their awareness of the natural world.
Whether you choose to follow the guided activities or simply explore at your own pace, the trail encourages a slower, more mindful approach to being outdoors.
Experiencing Nature Through Your Senses
Forest Therapy is rooted in sensory awareness. Rather than focusing on where you are going, the practice encourages you to focus on what you are experiencing in the present moment.
Seeing the Forest Differently
Pause beside the lagoon, stand quietly beneath the trees, or gaze across the Bow River. Notice the countless shades of green, the movement of leaves in the breeze, and the reflections dancing across the water. Instead of searching for something specific, allow your attention to settle naturally on whatever captures your curiosity.
Listening to Nature's Symphony
The sanctuary's soundscape is one of its greatest gifts. Listen to the songs of birds, the rustling of leaves, the flow of water, and the gentle movement of wind through the trees. Try listening for the most distant sound you can hear and then gradually bring your awareness back to the sounds closest to you, including your own breathing.
Reconnecting Through Touch
Touch the textured bark of a tree, feel the warmth of sunlight on your skin, or notice the cool air drifting from the river. Sitting quietly against a tree or resting on a seating mat can create a powerful sense of grounding and connection.
Breathing in Nature
The forest offers a constantly changing collection of natural scents. Depending on the season, you may notice the fragrance of leaves, soil, wildflowers, fresh rain, or river air. Taking slow, deep breaths allows you to experience these subtle but powerful elements of the natural environment.
A Moment of Reflection
Many Forest Therapy sessions conclude with a period of quiet reflection. Some visitors bring a thermos of herbal tea and spend a few moments sitting peacefully before returning to daily life. This simple practice can help carry the calm and awareness of the forest into the rest of the day.
Respecting the Sanctuary
The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary is more than a park. It is a protected wildlife habitat that provides critical nesting and feeding areas for many species.
Visitors are encouraged to remain on designated pathways, respect wildlife, and help preserve the peaceful atmosphere that makes the sanctuary so special. Bicycles, jogging, and pets are not permitted within the sanctuary, helping ensure that both wildlife and visitors can enjoy a calm and uninterrupted experience.
A New Experience Every Season
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Forest Bathing Trail is that it changes throughout the year.
Spring brings migrating birds and fresh growth. Summer fills the sanctuary with vibrant greenery and active wildlife. Autumn transforms the landscape with spectacular colours, while winter creates a quiet and reflective atmosphere unlike any other season.
No two visits are exactly the same, and each season offers its own opportunities for connection and discovery.
A Free Opportunity to Slow Down
The next time life feels overwhelming, you may not need to drive hours into the mountains to find peace. One of Calgary's most meaningful opportunities for relaxation and renewal may be much closer than you think.
Located at 2425 9 Avenue SE, the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary offers visitors a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. Admission is free, no special equipment is required, and there is no previous experience needed.
Sometimes the most important journey is not measured by distance. Sometimes it begins with a single slow step and a willingness to pay attention.
Interested in Forest Therapy? I'd Love to Hear From You
As a Recreational Forest Therapy Practitioner, I am passionate about helping people discover the many benefits of spending time in nature. Forest Therapy is not about fitness, hiking, or reaching a destination. It is about slowing down, becoming present, and building a deeper connection with the natural world around us.
If this article has sparked your curiosity, I would be happy to answer your questions. Whether you want to learn more about forest bathing, understand the science behind the practice, learn what to expect during a guided session, or explore how nature can support your well-being, please feel free to reach out.
Nature has an incredible ability to help us slow down, recharge, and reconnect with what truly matters. Sometimes the first step is simply asking a question and beginning the conversation.
I would love to hear from you and help you begin your own journey into the restorative world of Forest Therapy.