Forest Bathing
Shinrin-Yoku (森林浴)
Forest Bathing
Shinrin-Yoku (森林浴)
What is forest bathing?
Forest bathing, also known as “Shinrin Yoku” (森林浴), is a practice that originates from Japan and means “immersion in the forest atmosphere”.
It is not about sporting activities or hiking, but about consciously spending time in the forest to experience the calming and health-promoting effects of nature on the body and mind. Shinrin Yoku was developed in Japan in the 1980s as a response to increasing stress and technological advancement and has since gained popularity worldwide.
In Japan, it has become an integral part of the health system. Forest bathing is consciously immersing yourself in the forest atmosphere to open the senses and intensely perceive the natural environment. It is about slowly strolling, feeling, smelling and hearing nature. It is a type of mindfulness practice that encourages us to leave the stress of everyday life behind and immerse ourselves in the present moment.
Scientific background and benefits
The positive health effects of forest bathing are well documented. Numerous studies (e.g.: Margaret Hansen et al; Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review (International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2017) have shown that spending time in the forest can lead to a reduction in stress hormones such as cortisol, lower blood pressure, and a strengthening of the immune system. Other benefits include:
- Improved mood and increased well-being: Immersing yourself in nature reduces anxiety and depression and promotes positive emotions.
Promoting creativity and concentration: The natural environment of the forest supports cognitive function by calming the mind and stimulating creative thought processes.
Boosting the immune system: Trees and plants emit phytoncides (terpenes), organic compounds that can stimulate the immune system and increase the number of natural killer cells.
Improved sleep: Spending time in the forest can lead to better sleep by reducing stress and promoting inner calm.
How will we bathe in the forest?
Forest bathing is a simple but powerful practice. You don't need any special equipment or skills to do it. What you should bring is the following:
- Slowness: Bring time (at least 2 hours) so that we can explore the forest (smell, feel, hear) at a slow pace. It's not about achieving something, but about slowing down, consciously experiencing the moment. And experiencing yourself in that moment.
- Mindfulness: You will learn to open your senses to nature. Listen to the rustling of the leaves, the chirping of the birds, the babbling of a stream. Smell the earthy scent of the forest floor and feel the bark of the trees or the leaves.
- Connection to nature: You will experience what it feels like to build a deep connection to nature when you sit down, breathe deeply and let the atmosphere of the forest work its magic on you.
What is best left at home / let go of:
- Smartphones
- Cameras
- Any other form of distraction such as the desire to listen to music or have conversations
The goal is to arrive completely in the here and now.
Forest bathing becomes part of your healthy lifestyle
You will learn how to easily integrate forest bathing into your everyday life and make it an important part of your mindful and healthy lifestyle. From now on, regular stays in the forest will be a welcome break from hectic everyday life and will make a significant contribution to maintaining your mental and physical health.
When can I welcome you to the forest?
certification
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