Forest Bathing: Healing the Soul in Ta Lien Son
Vietnam’s Northwest is famous for mountain peaks covered in the green of the forest. One of them is Ta Lien Son, standing 2,996 m high. With its rich vegetation, this mountain has a magical power to soothe the soul. Let’s explore it with To Ong through a Ta Lien Son trekking journey.
1. A brief look at forest bathing therapy:
Just hearing the word “forest” brings to mind endless green spaces and cool, fresh air. The name itself helps the mind relax and feel at peace. That is why people seek out forests to unwind, giving rise to Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing.
This practice appeared in Japan in the 1980s. It is a way of spending time beneath the forest canopy. There is no fixed standard for the practice. You can rest peacefully, work, stroll, or trek, as long as you feel comfortable.
Researchers have shown that forest trees release phytoncides, natural oils that are beneficial for the immune system. Forest soil also contains Mycobacterium vaccae bacteria. When inhaled, these bacteria can help improve mood effectively.
That is why trekkers often feel energized and more positive after trekking through dense forests.
2. Ta Lien Son – a fairy-tale forest with diverse plant life
Ta Lien Son, also known as Co Trau Mountain, is located in Ta Leng Commune, Tam Duong District, Lai Chau Province. Looking up from Ta Leng village at the foot of the mountain, the peak rises proudly like the back of a buffalo, which may be the origin of the name Co Trau. Low year-round temperatures and high humidity give Ta Lien its captivating beauty.
The journey of immersing yourself in the stillness of Ta Lien forest takes you through several distinct forest zones, each bringing different emotions:
Evergreen forest
The evergreen forest covers the largest area, stretching from the mountain foot to the summit. True to its name, even as the four seasons pass, the forest keeps its deep green color. It is home to countless ancient trees covered in moss and lichen. Tall, twisting trunks in all kinds of unusual shapes make you feel as though you have wandered into a magical fairy-tale world.
Red maple forest
When autumn arrives, Ta Lien Son is dyed in the red of maple leaves. Walking across a vivid carpet of leaves, your spirit becomes joyful and light, as if the leaves themselves are dancing and playing with the wind.
Ancient tea forest
At elevations above 1,600 m, ancient tea trees dominate this area. They have grown for hundreds of years, with trunks that can reach up to 35 m tall. Local people often climb the mountain to pick young tea buds for brewing. The tea tastes slightly astringent, with a sweet aftertaste and a gentle aroma that lingers in the steam. In the cold of the Northwest, few things are better than warming up with a hot cup of tea.
Vast rhododendron forest
The Northwest is a paradise for rhododendrons. They grow especially densely as you get closer to the summit. No matter how harsh the weather becomes, rhododendrons continue to endure. Many old rhododendron roots are hundreds of years old. They are so resilient that almost an entire mountainside can be covered with rhododendrons. These woody plants bloom toward the end of spring, starting from the lower slopes and rising toward the summit. Visit Ta Lien during flower season and you can immerse yourself in countless shades of yellow, purple, and more.
With these unique forests, Ta Lien Son is a wonderful place to practice Shinrin-yoku.
3. How to immerse yourself in Ta Lien forest:
Applying forest bathing to a Ta Lien Son trekking trip is very simple. First, prepare an open mind, ready to welcome new things. Next, prepare a light pack with all essential items. You can contact To Ong for support with specialized trekking gear. To Ong can help carry tents, meals, drinking water, hygiene equipment, trekking tools, and more. This preparation helps you feel more comfortable throughout the trip.
The last thing you need to do is enjoy the journey to conquer Ta Lien Son. Trekking is about clearly feeling the breath of the forest and stepping into the natural world, so let your senses move freely. Stay quiet, breathe deeply, and allow the fresh forest air to enter every cell.
Every now and then, give yourself a return to nature. Ta Lien Son forest, with its wonderful ability to restore the spirit, will surely not disappoint. Come trek with To Ong.
