12 September 2025
The Benguet State University College of Forestry (CF), in partnership with the Gender and Development Office, hosted the Forest Bathing: A Work Break for the Mind and Soul 2.0 at CF grounds. This activity is part of the month-long celebration of the university’s 109th Foundation Anniversary.
BSU students and employees joined the activity which aimed to relieve stress, promote nature conservation, and introduce various tree species to the community.
CF Dean Nova D. Doyog welcomed the participants and provided a brief overview. She related the activity to the Japanese term shinrin-yoku, a practice or process of therapeutic relaxation by spending time with nature for well-being. Doyog encouraged everyone to focus on relaxing the mind and body.
CF faculty member Bernard Peter O. Daipan led the group on a dendro walk and forest hike, introducing the different species of trees and plants found in the area.
After the hike, Human Resource Management Office Supervising Administrative Officer Raymundo H. Pawid Jr. facilitated a meditation session to help remove negative energies and enhance productivity. This was followed by a tree-hugging activity to promote calmness and a deeper connection with the forest.
CF Faculty member R-jay R. Andrade expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to join, highlighting the activity as a valuable way to relax and meditate.
“I think this is an avenue to really relax and detox, napakaimportantenito at nagkaroon ng time to refresh at magkaroon ng time para marelax ang atingutak at makapagkonektasa nature,” he stated.
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science student Alison M. Moga also shared her experience and how it helped her prepare for school.
“I really enjoyed the activity, kahitnakakapagodsiyaperonakakarelaxhabangnaglalakad, and nawawalayungmga problems and mas nagiging ready para sa next nagagawin,” she said.
This forest bathing activity supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Gender Equality (SDG 5), and Life on Land (SDG 15). //PJG