What is forest bathing?
Forest bathing comes from the Japanese term and tradition Shinrin-yoku, which means taking in the forest atmosphere.
It involves experiencing natural environments through the senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch, breathing exercises and observation of nature-based surroundings.
This mindfulness practice in nature originated in Japan in the 1980s as more and more office workers started having stress-related illnesses. The results of scientific studies that have been conducted over the last 30 years, show that forest bathing not only improves sleep quality, mood, ability to focus, and stress levels, but can also reduce blood pressure and lower cortisol levels. A chemical released by trees and plants, called phytoncides, was found to boost the immune system.
Forest bathing has become a vital part of preventative healthcare in Japan and is now adopted by more and more countries around the world. Restorative trips into areas rich in nature have become a leading wellness trend, to address the negative effects of the predominantly indoors life.
Doctors in Canada can now prescribe a national park pass to patients in need of the physical or mental health benefits offered by time spent in nature.
If you are curious to learn more about forest bathing, I highly recommend the book by Dr. Qing Li from the Nippon Medical School in Tokyo, “Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness”.
Or even better, join one of my sessions, and experience it for yourself!
