In the heart of the French Alps, Megève is the perfect epitome of a charming alpine ski resort town. But amidst the hustle and bustle of over 150 ski slopes and cafes lies its true magic: ethereal forest wonderlands covering over 40% of the territory.

Forest bathing originated in Japan, but it’s become a popular Megève activity for locals and guests. With the towering Mont Blanc, pristine forests, and abundant flora and fauna, Megève offers the opportunity to reconnect with nature.

This article explores the advantages of forest bathing in Megève, how to engage in the activity, and how to experience its benefits without leaving your chalet.

Related article: From Livestock To Luxury: How French Chalets Became Popular Holiday Homes

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing is the practice of being engulfed in nature. It is more than just a walk in the woods or a simple hike; it’s a complete surrender to your senses. It’s about slowing down, appreciating trees and the forest, and simply acknowledging the beauty of nature.

Forest bathing, or Shinrin-Yoku, was coined in 1982 by Tomohide Akiyama of the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forests, and Fishery. It has its origins in meditation and Buddhist practices.

The Benefits of Forest Bathing

Photo: Megève Tourisme

Forest bathing is believed to help lower stress levels, elevate mood, boost the immune system, and improve overall well-being.

Practitioners believe that spending time in nature helps awaken one’s senses, calm one’s nervous system, and help one relax.

A 2010 study reveals that forest bathing leads to lowered levels of cortisol. The study found that people who engaged in forest bathing two times a day for 2 hours (4 hours/day) had higher levels of cancer-killing proteins and immune cells.

In another study conducted in 2011, researchers discovered that forest bathing positively impacts blood pressure and the protein called adiponectin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Forest bathing has benefits similar to meditation and mindfulness, but participants walk in a forest instead of sitting in a private, quiet space.

Forest Bathing in Megève

Forest bathing is quickly becoming popular in Megève, with its beautiful fir and pine trees, gorgeous views of Mont Blanc, and snow-covered forests in winter. Though the activity may seem appropriate for summer, when wildlife and forests are more visible, winter offers a unique chance to embrace nature with its cool, crisp air and lush landscapes.

Related article: Experiencing Alpine Summer à la Megève

Here are two ways you can experience the wonders of forest bathing in Megève:

1. Guided Forest Bathing

Photo: Wilder Kaiser

Guided forest bathing by trained experts in Megève is offered to people of all ages and skill levels. These experts guide you through the forest, which typically lasts two hours, and engage you in mindfulness and meditation activities.

Aside from a simple hike or a snowshoe trek, these guides teach you to practice silent observation, engage in the beauty of nature, and help you reconnect.

You may also encounter Megève’s rich flora and fauna as your guide teaches about local plants, trees, and wildlife. During your walk, you may see deer, squirrels, birds, and occasionally wild boar and chamois.

Guided forest bathing activities are a great way to experience Megève’s beauty beyond the slopes and the hype. With over a third of the territory covered in lush forests, forest bathing allows you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty while allowing you to slow down, relax, and refuel.

2. Indoor Forest Bathing

For those who can’t leave their chalet, forest bathing can still be experienced indoors. A trained guide who can conduct guided meditations with nature sounds and music, including forest-scented aromatherapy, lead, or guided visual forest meditations.

Some of the exercises include breathing exercises, mindfulness, and visualization. Suppose you’d like to do it on your own. In that case, you can also enjoy indoor forest bathing by opening your windows to let the cool air of Megève in, reveling in the beautiful mountains and environment, and taking a moment to appreciate what surrounds you.

A Winter Retreat in Megève’s Serene Wilderness

Winter in Megève is more than skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing; it can be an opportunity to reconnect with the beauty of nature. Snow-capped mountains, majestic snow-covered fig trees, and stunning flora and fauna provide the ideal environment to stop, be still, focus on the beauty around you, and simply be present.

Are you ready to experience the calming benefits of forest bathing in Megève? Whether you’re looking for guided forest walks in the Alpine wilderness or a peaceful retreat in one of the Megève chalets with the sounds of chirping birds, your chalet concierge can craft the perfect activities to reconnect and engage in Megève’s stunning natural beauty.

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Featured Image: Minnesota Parent