Rainbow Schools challenged to connect with nature for International Day of Forests

Staff and students in Rainbow Schools are challenged to immerse themselves in nature with shinrin-yoku for the International Day of Forests on Monday, March 21, 2022. It’s all part of the Rainbow District School Board’s ongoing efforts to encourage sustainable practices.

Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is an ecotherapy practised by Japanese people since the 1980s. While walking through a forest, practitioners consciously use their five senses to remove overstimulation and connect with the environment.

“Mindfulness and health can often converge with a simple walk in the woods,” says Director of Education Bruce Bourget. “There is something to be said about dedicating time to stop and smell the roses.”

Schools were given a variety of ideas to teach students about the history of trees and the significance of forests including educational articles, videos and age-appropriate books like “The Giving Tree” and “The Lorax”.

“Trees provide invaluable resources needed to sustain life on earth,” says Director Bourget. “They also reduce noise pollution, water pollution and detrimental greenhouse gases – the root of human-induced climate change.”

He adds: “On the International Day of Forests, students will learn the very important role trees play in our lives, and will brainstorm ways to reduce their own carbon footprint.”

For Indigenous peoples, their connection with trees begins at birth. For generations, they have experienced Minaadendomowin – a respect for the trees – believing that trees have spirit and form their own natural community as living beings.

To connect with nature, schools can take a field trip to a local trail or park, go paper free for the day, clean a forested area near the school, prepare seeds for planting this spring, make maple syrup in the school yard and, of course, practise shinrin-yoku.

While outside, students can answer various questions such as “what types of trees can be found in northern Ontario?” and “why is it important to conserve paper?” Teachers may also connect classroom curriculum to the outdoors.

The Board’s Environmental Committee issues monthly challenges throughout the school year.

Last month, students turned down the heat on Sweater Day.

What will next month’s challenge be?

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217