Shinrin-yoku also known as forest bathing originated in Japan in the 1980s to help reduce stress. It is a practice that involves immersing yourself in a forest atmosphere and experiencing the therapeutic benefits it offers. It is about slowing down and using your five senses to connect with nature. For example, one might feel the grass under their feet, smell the wildflowers, taste safe to eat berries, notice the sun shining through the trees on the leaves and listen to the sounds of the birds. You can walk slowly through the forest, meditate, do yoga, or just sit and experience a mindful connection to nature.
Since the 1980s there have been numerous studies conducted on forest bathing which indicate this practice offers a wide range of health benefits. The studies show that the phytoncides released by trees can strengthen our immune system by reducing our stress hormones and increasing our levels of white-blood cells known as natural killer cells (NK cells). NK cells destroy diseased and infected cells in our bodies, helping to fight infections, cancers, and tumors. Forest bathing was also shown to reduce anxiety and depression, improve mood, improve sleep, reduce fatigue, help with anger, lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular and metabolic health, and boost overall well-being.
Discover the natural healing power of forest bathing today. It is a simple yet powerful way for you to reconnect with nature and reap the physical and mental benefits it has to offer. Take control of your health and well-being and make it an essential addition to your self-care routine.