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What do you say; Mountain Bathing ... ?
“What are you inviting me to? Mountain Bathing, you say; bathing in the mountains? And do you expect me to bring my swimwear?” I can’t help but smile on the other end of the line. Those questions; the curiosity about what we’re going to do, what to expect, bring me back to the essence of this unique adventure. After a brief pause, I respond: “Yes, do bring your swimwear and follow the rest of the packing list I sent you. I’ll see you next week at the foot of the mountain. The mountains are calling; adventure is starting!”
What is Mountain Bathing?
Over the past few years, we’ve had the privilege of taking many groups into the mountains for their AlpAdventures. Groups with different backgrounds and goals. Sometimes it’s a group of friends looking to strengthen their bond, other times it’s a company team aiming to work toward new goals together, or individual entrepreneurs who want to share their vision and discuss doubts with like-minded peers. What always strikes me is that while the reasons for participation vary, the experience we gain is often the same: finding peace, space, and connection in nature. We live in a society that constantly pushes us forward in an endless stream of obligations, deadlines, and responsibilities. In that rush, we often lose sight of what truly matters in life. Mountain Bathing offers an escape from this rat race, a chance to return to the simplicity of life and the grandeur of nature.
Let's bring swimwear anyway
Mountain Bathing, inspired by the Japanese practice of “Shinrin-yoku”; forest bathing. It is not a physical bathing experience but a sensory and mindful immersion in nature. Just as forest bathing focuses on the restorative effect of nature on body and mind, mountain bathing emphasizes the deep sense of connection that the mountains can provide.
When you enter the mountains, you leave behind your daily life with all its routines and busyness. With a sturdy backpack filled with the physical baggage we think we need and the mental baggage we all unknowingly carry, we begin an adventure of self-reflection and self-discovery. This isn’t just an ordinary hike but a conscious process of creating space for ourselves and each other. And the beauty is that this space is created naturally and organicly, without relying on any theories or techniques. But what about that swimwear, you might ask? Well, we sleep in mountain huts, hammocks, igloos we build ourselves, or even directly under the stars. Most of these places don’t have a shower (let alone a bath). So what could be more refreshing than washing up in a crystal-clear mountain stream, under a cascading waterfall, or in a crisp alpine lake?
Unplug & reconnect
At the beginning of our journey, we always take a moment to pause. This is a time for everyone to introduce themselves and share why they’ve chosen this adventure. What are you hoping to find? What are you struggling with? Together, we create an open, safe environment where everyone feels comfortable being vulnerable. While we each enter the mountains with our own story, we collectively contribute to a new one. A story whose ending we don’t yet know, written together on this mountain journey. Every step, every conversation, and every moment of silence brings us closer to a deeper connection, not only with nature but also with ourselves and the people around us. Unplug & reconnect; it's such a great feeling!
The next edition
The next edition of our Mountain Bathing journeys takes place in November. A month many consider gloomy, as winter approaches and the days grow shorter. But isn’t that the perfect time to break free from the routine, step out of your comfort zone, and embark on an adventure? Imagine the mountains, silent and majestic, with slopes still green or brown, or perhaps already covered with a first layer of snow. The air is crisp and clear, and there’s a calm energy in the air that invites reflection and renewal. If the cold sets in, we’ll light a fire to keep warm. If the sun shines, we’ll pause to soak in its warmth. If the rain comes, we’ll take the opportunity to sing or even dance. And when challenges arise, we’ll be there to help each other find the way.
Mountains are calling
In recent years, we’ve had the pleasure of guiding many people through the mountains. open to an alpine adventure. Each came with their own expectations, but time and again, we discovered the same power of Mountain Bathing: the ability to connect, not only with nature but also with ourselves and with one another. If you’re looking for a way to disconnect from the daily hustle and reconnect with what truly matters, join us on our next Mountain Bathing adventure.
November 21-24: The mountains are calling, and you should go.