Walk, Forest, Walk

Speed is discouraged on Asia’s first tropical rainforest immersion, where slow, silent roaming deep in Borneo’s jungle soothes the soul

- Stephanie Shiu

We know that a day spent outdoors can leave us feeling calm and centred. But more than a mental reset, the health benefits of soaking in greenery, documented in Professor Yoshifumi Miyazaki’s Shinrin-Yoku, are backed by science. His book created a buzz in wellness circles, showcasing a study on physiological changes brought about by walking unhurried through the woods on lowering stress, supported by later studies which underlined our biological need to be in nature, and its capacity to prevent disease.

Though age-old, the forest bathing concept continues to gain momentum, and forms the basis of the inaugural Ayus Wellness Experience in Sarawak, Borneo. The programme is co-founded by the owner of Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa Dato’ Robert Geneid (where the retreat takes place) and Professor Gerard Bodeker, a Harvard-trained public health specialist, wellness expert and chair of the Mental Wellness Initiative of the Global Wellness Institute.

Where better than a 60-million-year-old rainforest and UNESCO World Heritage site to combine indigenous knowledge with nature as medicine? Mulu National Park, surrounded by 52,000 hectares of primeval woodland and ancient caves, is one of Southeast Asia’s most important sites. The launch merges wellness and the wilderness based on medical evidence of how a mindful connection with nature can increase immunity, while lowering stress and blood pressure.

DAY 1

A blanket of tree canopies on the descent into Mulu National Park sets the scene. We are in for something special. A rickety bus takes us down a narrow path, minutes from the airport, to Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa, a place where time seems to slow. That is the purpose of the Ayus Wellness Experience — to unlearn our city-dwelling habits and get back in tune with nature and ourselves.