CHAMINADE RESORT & SPA
Forest Therapy Blog
Rain Is an Invitation: Rediscover the Magic of the Redwoods at Chaminade
By Wendy Figone
Forest bathing, the science of getting outdoors, and the unexpected joy of a rainy day.
There's something magical about walking through a redwood forest in the rain, especially at Chaminade Resort & Spa. Once home to a monastery, these grounds carry a legacy of quiet reflection, contemplation, and connection with the natural world
Raindrops gather on fern fronds, moss glistens in vibrant shades of green, and the earthy scent of damp soil rises beneath your feet. A rainy-day Forest Therapy walk has a way of soothing the soul, often becoming a portal to introspection and reconnection.
With the possibility of El Niño bringing wetter weather, perhaps it's time to rethink our relationship with rain. Rather than waiting for sunshine, what if we embraced the opportunity to experience nature in a completely different way?
Finding Wonder in All Kinds of Weather
Years ago, Rachel Carson's beautiful book, The Sense of Wonder, inspired me to venture outdoors at times when most of us instinctively stay inside—in the rain, during hailstorms, and even after dark.
Carson encouraged us to approach the natural world with curiosity and wonder, rather than waiting for ideal conditions.
Her words have stayed with me:
"A rainy day is the perfect time for a walk in the woods."
— Rachel Carson, The Sense of Wonder
Following that invitation changed my relationship with nature. I began noticing things I had previously missed: the extraordinary stillness of a forest at night, the sound of rain moving through the trees, and the way familiar landscapes transform with changing weather.
These experiences deepened my love of the natural world and strengthened my sense of connection and belonging. I discovered that nature has something to offer in every season, at every hour, and in almost every kind of weather, when conditions are safe.
The Indoor Epidemic: Why Getting Outside Matters
In his 2026 book, Indoor Epidemic, physician Dr. John La Puma explores a startling reality of modern life: We spend approximately 93% of our lives indoors.
As Dr. La Puma explains, modern life has increasingly separated us from the natural environmental cues that help regulate our bodies.
His book explores how spending so much time under artificial lighting, surrounded by screens, and disconnected from natural environments may contribute to disrupted sleep, reduced attention, stress, and other health challenges.
His central message is encouraging: even small amounts of intentional time outdoors can support better sleep, mood, focus, and overall well-being.
And here's something worth considering: If we only venture outdoors when the weather is perfect, how much of the natural world are we missing?
Rain doesn't have to be a reason to stay inside. It can become another opportunity to reconnect.
Petrichor: The Wonderful Smell of Rain
Have you ever noticed that unmistakable earthy fragrance when rain first touches the ground?
It has a name: petrichor (pronounced PET-ri-kor).
This distinctive aroma arises when rainfall releases compounds from soil and plants into the air, including geosmin, produced by soil microorganisms.
Our sense of smell is closely connected to brain regions involved in memory and emotion. Perhaps the scent of rain-soaked earth reminds you of childhood adventures, a favorite garden, or a peaceful moment outdoors.
Rain transforms the forest into a sensory wonderland, awakening our senses and inviting us to notice what we might otherwise overlook.
The Secret to Enjoying a Rain Walk? Preparation!
As the saying goes, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only poor preparation!"
A little planning can turn a damp day into a memorable adventure.
- Dress in layers. Temperatures can change quickly beneath the redwood canopy.
- Bring a waterproof jacket and umbrella. Staying dry and comfortable allows you to relax and enjoy the experience.
- Wear shoes with good traction. Wet trails can be slippery.
- Slow down. Notice raindrops on leaves, the scent of wet earth, and the sounds of water moving through the forest.
- Embrace curiosity. What does the forest reveal in the rain that you might miss on a sunny day?
- Put safety first. Avoid forest trails during lightning, high winds, falling-branch hazards, or unsafe conditions.
Experience a Guided Rain Walk at Chaminade
At Chaminade Resort & Spa, home to one of the Bay Area's first Certified Forest Therapy Trails, we invite you to experience the redwoods through a different lens.
Forest Therapy, inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, is not about hiking farther or moving faster. It's about slowing down, awakening your senses, and being fully present.
On rainy days when conditions are safe, our guided experiences may include umbrellas, gentle sensory invitations, and thoughtfully incorporated rain-inspired music shared through bluetooth headphones.
We'll help you discover how even a familiar forest can feel entirely new when experienced through your senses.
Explore Guided Forest Therapy Experiences at Chaminade
Or Create Your Own Rainy-Day Ritual
Prefer to explore independently?
Chaminade's Certified Forest Therapy Trail offers an opportunity to practice slowing down and connecting with nature at your own pace.
Find a comfortable place to pause. Listen to the rain. Notice the colors, textures, and scents around you. Allow yourself to linger without needing to accomplish anything.
Even a few quiet minutes of sensory awareness can offer a welcome break from the demands of daily life. Our attention needs places to rest so our creative minds can come back online.
Check trail access and weather conditions with Chaminade before heading outdoors.
From Rain-Soaked Redwoods to Hygge
And perhaps one of the best parts of a rainy forest walk is what comes afterward.
The Danish concept of hygge (pronounced HOO-gah) describes a feeling of coziness, warmth, comfort, and contentment found in life's simple pleasures.
Imagine returning to Chaminade after your forest experience, wrapping your hands around a warm cup of tea or coffee, or settling beside a crackling fire.
The contrast between the cool, rain-soaked forest and the warmth of a welcoming space makes the experience even more delightful.
It's a reminder that well-being isn't always about doing more. Sometimes it's about slowing down, experiencing the world around us, and appreciating the simple pleasures of being alive.
Let It Rain
The next time clouds gather over the Santa Cruz Mountains, consider trading the comfort of indoors for a little wonder and wander outdoors.
Bring your raincoat, your curiosity, and a willingness to experience something different.
You may discover that the days you once considered less than ideal become some of your most memorable moments in nature.
The forest is waiting—and afterward, the warmth of Chaminade awaits.
Written by Wendy Figone, ANFT Certified Forest Therapy Guide and Founder of Somatic Ecotherapy, in collaboration with Chaminade Resort & Spa.
Explore Forest Therapy Research & Resources
References & Further Reading
- Rachel Carson, The Sense of Wonder (1965).
- John La Puma, MD, Indoor Epidemic: 93% Inside Steals Sleep, Focus & Years—The 7% Outdoor Rx Restores Them (2026). Learn more from Dr. La Puma.