I grew up walking Forest Park trails. Now, years later, I find myself drawn back to the woods. I love the peace and quiet. How the seasons change the forest. I love the different colors, smells and textures. I also love how I feel after a long walk in the woods. Refreshed. Happy.
But, for some reason it’s hard for me to actually get out there and go for a hike. I’m just admitting this because I have a feeling I’m not alone.
And so I decided this year will be different. I will become more active, as I know it can lower the risk of heart disease. Researchers are also finding how spending time in nature might have long-term benefits for mental health, brain function, and chronic illnesses.
Interestingly, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, or EMDR, was first discovered by psychologist Francine Shapiro on a walk through the park. While reflecting on some of her distressing personal memories, Shapiro noticed that as she moved her eyes, the negative emotions she was experiencing seemed to decrease. Fascinating!
There are many places to hike in and around Portland. Forest Park offers more than 80-miles to explore.
One of my personal favorites is Hoyt Arboretum, which I recently learned dates back to the mid-19th century when Eli and Ann C. Stewart settled in Oregon Territory in 1850 and claimed 632 acres, including what is now the Arboretum.
The Arboretum’s first curator, hired in 1930, planted trees by family and established trails and roads. By 1936, over 4,000 trees had been planted, and his successor, Ernie Fischer, completed the plan during his 30-year tenure.
Today Hoyt Arboretum is home to over 6,000 trees—with more than 2,300 species from over 170 families, including 67 species listed as rare or endangered. The majority of the Arboretum is arranged according to phylogeny (plants that share common evolutionary ancestors are grouped together). The Conifer Collection is an American Conifer Society reference garden – and many notable trees, including the first dawn redwood to set cones in North America in 6 million years. You can find self-guided tours HERE. Plan your visit HERE.
When my children were young they used to spend hours in the Arboretum, thanks to the Opal School, which sadly closed. Opal used to insist the kids go out every day and hike the woods, rain or shine, which is exactly what I plan to do this year.
