Five best forest bathing spots on Oahu for a relaxing start to your vacation

When I lived on Oahu, I thought finding a quiet spot on an island of almost million people would be like finding a popped-out contact lens at a Foo Fighters concert. Since I did not want to squint my way through life there, I began my search in earnest. It wasn't too long before I came upon what I was craving, pockets of solitude in nature. These pockets serve a necessary and therapeutic purpose. Forest bathing immerses our senses in the beauty and healing properties of the world around us. In Kathy Willis's book, Good Nature, she breaks down the latest studies showing the health benefits we receive when we engage our senses in specific ways. So, I searched for places that appealed to each of my senses in the most beneficial ways and this is what I found...

1. Aiea loop trail. It's a 4.8-mile loop trail located in Keaiwa Heiau State Rec Area. As you walk up the path, you are soon immersed in a large stand of Cook pines that gradually give way to towering tree ferns and giant eucalyptus trees. You catch wafts of their minty fragrance along the way. The phytoncides given off by these trees boost immunity and NK cancer fighting cells. There is an open area about a mile into the trail where the scent envelopes you, look for a swing perched near an overlook and breathe deeply.

2. Alan Davis Beach. this beach proves you don't need a forest to reap the benefits of nature bathing. This secluded beach on the southeast side of the island is a quick 15-minute walk from Makapu'u Lighthouse parking. Don't let the crowds fool you. when they start their uphill climb, look for the wide gravel path to your right that gently slopes down to the Pacific. Soon you will leave the noise behind and have a wide valley mostly to yourself. A Swedish study conducted at Lund University found that hearing sounds of nature help us recover faster from stress than seeing nature. At the end of your gentle half mile stroll, look for the network of paths leading to the ocean, there are some shady areas where you can drop a blanket and shut your eyes to envelope yourself in the sound of the surf. When you are ready, explore the shoreline under the shadow of Pele's chair, the giant rock formation overlooking the beach to the east.

3. Byodo-in-Temple. Situated at the foot of the Ko'olau mountains, this place feels otherworldly as the clouds flow down from the mountain peaks behind this replica of a 1,000-year-old Japanese temple. Here you can engage with nature both inside and out. The wood floors of the temple feel soft and warm under my bare feet as I walk towards the giant Amida Buddha bathed in gold light. Burning incense evokes memories from before time began. The deep bong of the Bon-sho (sacred bell) became my heartbeat. Every part of me is relaxed and engaged. Go in the early morning to beat the crowds. Buy some bird seed in the gift shop and become a perch for the sweet little doves waiting for breakfast or feed the many brightly colored koi in the reflecting pond that surrounds the temple. there are pockets of peace here away from the tourists where you can stroll up to see the view above the temple or walk along the pond. There is a small entrance fee, but it is well worth the cost.

4. Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens. This 400-acre garden located on the windward side of Oahu features planting from all over the tropical world. Come to engage your curiosity. Feel the air turn cool as you slip past the vines along the jungle trail. At the end of this trail, follow a stream that winds out into a hidden meadow at the base of the mountains. You will probably be the only person there. Seeing the color green compared to other colors triggers a positive emotional state according to Willis' research. It also enhances creativity. Open vistas with scattered trees provide the best results. This fits the bill perfectly.

5. Kapiolani Park. It is the largest public park in Hawaii and sits on the east end of Waikiki. Its name means Arch of Heaven. Even so close to downtown, pockets of serenity abound. There are several large banyan trees that dot the park. One anchored right on the beach offers shade under its long draping arms. From here, you can melt into the sound of gentle lapping waves or the soft texture of brown sugar sand. You can also stroll under the double row of ironwood trees that line the drive and look across to Waikiki beach and downtown from the boardwalk, feeling close to the action but also a little removed. Here the bustle of the city is muted, mixing with the ocean waves and birdsong to create a quiet sanctuary in the middle of this bustling paradise.

   Whatever path you choose to take, I hope you find your perfect spot to relax and reset. Forest bathing is a great way to start your vacation or enhance your time on the island. If you'd like a guided experience in a location that enlivens all your senses, I highly recommend Phyllis at Forest Bathing Hawaii. Mahalo nui loa.