Listen to your body and restore your mental and physical well-being in luscious nature
The Forest Regimen program at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa is a two-night and three-day wellness program that focuses on hot springs and forest bathing to restore mental and physical well-being. This program includes stretches to strengthen facial muscles, vocal cords, and respiratory muscles, as well as acupressure to prepare the body for easy exercise. By immersing yourself in the beautiful views of Mt. Asama and enjoying various experiences in the forest and hot springs, you can focus on yourself and restore your overall well-being.
Background
Nestled in the midst of natural beauty at the base of Mt. Asama, HOSHINOYA Karuizawa is located adjacent to Hoshino Onsen, which has a history of over a century, and Karuizawa Wild Bird Forest (formerly known as the "forest of wild birds"), which has been preserved for two generations. This wellness program is focused on rejuvenating both the mind and body, with the goal of restoring overall health.
Characteristic 1: Enhance the motor function of the body
This program is overseen by the Institute of Physical Education and Medicine, and with the assistance of the HOSHINOYA Karuizawa staff, who have mastered the preferred technique of deep breathing and walking, we will assess the physical condition of each guest.
Adjusting the whole body with "Forest Walking"
During forest walking, the body's core is strengthened by adopting the desired deep breathing methods and walking style. The first consultation is held upon arrival to determine the current physical condition, daily physical activities, and habits. Guests are then encouraged to focus on their breathing while walking, inhaling through the nose and exhaling through their mouth. This style of walking allows the body to tighten the core as one lands on their heels and pushes off with their toes to take a big step for their next stride. On the second and third days, guests choose a course that suits their pace and put what they have learned into practice. By using the whole body to regain balance, guests can feel the essence of Karuizawa's nature.
"Mt. Asama Stretch" to strengthen facial muscles, vocal cords and respiratory muscles
This exercise is performed in a private space where you can enjoy the magnificent view of Mt. Asama. The exercise begins with deep breaths, where you breathe in air into your abdomen to wake up your body comfortably. Then, you'll loosen your facial muscles, including the eyebrows and cheeks, using your hands. Lastly, you'll complete a vocal exercise with your mouth and eyes wide open. This exercise is recommended to be practiced while imagining that you're delivering your voice to Mt. Asama, which lies in front of you. r voice to Mt. Asama which lies in front.
Characteristic 2: Relaxing mental and physical tension and adjusting your body for easy exercise
In this day and age, it's easy for our minds and bodies to become tense due to physical weakening caused by changes in our lifestyle, unnatural posture, and irregular habits during daily life. It's important not only to adjust to exercise but also to relax the tension of the mind and body.
Shiatsu massage to relieve tension built up in daily life
Shiatsu massage can help relieve tension that builds up in your body due to daily stress. At HOSHINOYA Karuizawa, a qualified Anma Shiatsu masseuse designs a custom treatment plan tailored to your specific condition. The massage is performed daily during your stay, taking into account your physical condition and exercise routine. By gradually relaxing tension throughout your body, you'll experience smoother movements and overall physical relief.
■Relaxation
A consultation will be conducted to assess the physical balance by checking the movement of the rib cage and posture. Following this, the doctor will perform a procedure to release tension in the entire body. This will help in the movement of hip and shoulder joints, enabling deep breathing and exercise.
■Tuning
Sometimes, the movements involved in forest walking and stretching can be unfamiliar, which can lead to unconscious fatigue in the body. By focusing on the areas that are causing strain, the body can be rebalanced for easier and more comfortable movement.
■Adjustment
By the end of this three-day program, you will experience improved motor function and reduced physical tension. We will also make adjustments to ensure your comfort when you return to your daily routine.
Deep breathing bathing technique that loosens the muscles and hydrates the respiratory system
There will be a lecture on the deep breathing bathing technique in the relaxation room in the "Meditation Bath," a hot spring reserved for guests staying at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa. This technique involves twisting your waist and stretching your thighs from your waist while taking deep breaths. Stretching helps to loosen up your muscles throughout the body, improves your posture and makes it easier to take deep breaths. Consequently, your body feels more relaxed and less stiff.
Characteristic 3: Tune your body with a nutritionally balanced diet
Shinshu is known for its seasonal ingredients. In spring, wild vegetables are abundant, while summer brings a variety of vegetables. Autumn is the season for mushrooms, while winter offers root vegetables and wild game meat. Inner care is also important, where the meals are not just tasty but also nutritious, as they are made using seasonal ingredients that are rich in nutrients.
Mountain Kaiseki
The Mountain Kaiseki is a dinner course that utilizes seasonal ingredients sourced from the mountains and rivers. The meal is carefully prepared to bring out the natural tastes of the ingredients while maintaining a perfect balance of flavors. Guests are presented with a variety of nutrient-rich, seasonal ingredients that are cooked to perfection. This results in a well-balanced meal that highlights the best flavor combinations for the guests to savor.
Mountain breakfast
The Mountain breakfast is designed around the idea of "eating whole foods." This approach is believed to be beneficial in achieving internal balance because all the nutrients are consumed. The broth used in this breakfast is made from whole vegetables such as ginger, carrot, and radish, and simmered for several hours. You can savor a variety of nutritionally balanced breakfast options including dashi rolled omelets, fish, and seasonal small bowls.
Overview of Forest Regimen
Time period: All year
Price: 181,500 JPY (incl. tax and service charge) for 1 person *Excludes accommodation fee
Includes: 2 consultations, 1 deep breathing bathing lecture, 3 forest walks, Shiatsu massage (relaxation/tuning/adjustment - 1 each, 2 Mt. Asama stretches, 2 dinners, 2 breakfasts
Capacity: 1 group per day (up to 2 people)
Reservation: required by 15 days in advance
Available to: Guests staying at HOSHINOYA Karuizawa
Notes:
・The schedule is subject to change according to the physical balance, requests, and weather.
・The contents of the meal may change depending on the availability of ingredients
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