Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese practice that started in the 1980’s. It is basically connecting with nature through all your senses, like smelling the forest air, feeling the leaves and the branches.
Why try Shinrin-yoku?
There are studies that show how forest bathing brings health benefits to an individual. Phytoncides, the antimicrobial chemicals released by trees to prevent from rotting also helps in giving health benefits to humans.
Most trees also contain organic compounds that support our own natural killers (NK) which fights off cancer.
Decreased depression, fatigue, anxiety, and confusion.
Boosted immune system
Improved sleep
Increased ability to focus
How to start forest bathing?
First, find a forest that will suit you. It doesn’t matter if it is an hour away from home or it will take hours of travel, as long as it is a place that will surely bring you comfort.
No gadgets. It is better to keep your phones in your bag or leave them behind.
After its temporary closure, the tourist spots in Sagada, Mountain Province have been reopened to the public but with a new set of rules as precautionary measure against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-2019).
Sagada Mayor James Pooten, Jr. has signed an order lifting the suspension on all eco-tourism activities in their area. However, Pooten said spelunking and sunrise viewing will remain suspended to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
The official also said tours will begin at 7:00 a.m. and tourists need to undergo health screenings upon arrival in Sagada.
“Assessment will be done when registering at the Tourist Information Center when checking in at accommodations, and before tours start,” he said.—AAC
As the “Emerging Tiger of Northern Luzon”, Cagayan can also be a one-stop-shop destination for all your travel cravings. You need some vitamin sea? Cagayan has the longest shoreline in the region.
Do you feel like getting lost in nature? The Sierra Madre lies in Cagayan Province. Or if you want to just sit back, relax, and get in touch with the locals, Cagayan offers a vast agricultural land, rivers, and municipal islands.
Sold na ba?
Trip Ko ‘To’s latest episode shared some Do-It-Yourself tips for you to get the best year-end travel in Cagayan.
Travel
Travel by bus: There are bus terminals en route to Tuguegarao in Cubao, Sampaloc, and Quezon City where fares will not exceed P700. Travel time is around 12 hours.
Travel by plane: For one hour and 15 minutes, you can already arrive at your destination. Air fare ranges from P3,700-P4,500.
Travel by car: It is around 12-hour drive to Tuguegarao from Metro Manila.
Lodging
Cocoon Travelers: It is located at 38 Luna St. Tuguegarao City, Cagayan where room rates ranges from P1,150-P2,050.
Capili Lodging: It is along Sta. Ana where rooms range from P500 (room for 2), P750 (air-conditioned room for 2).
Destinations
Callao Cave: A 30-minute ride from Tuguegarao City via tricycle (P70).
Sierra Cave: This is about 20 meters away from Callao Cave, you can also ride a tricycle to get there.
Cape Engano: In Pasamboa, ride a tricycle to San Vicente Port for a 15-peso boat ride. You can also rent a boat for P1,800. For P3,500 you can travel to Cape Engano, Anguib Beach, Crocodile Island, and Punta Verde.
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