Forest Bathing: Heal Your Mind, Body, And Spirit In Nature

If you are like me, you might have briefly heard of forest bathing, but aren’t really sure what it is. I love being in nature and doing anything outside, so I thought it was time to learn about forest bathing.

For those who are unfamiliar with it, let’s dive in and cover the what, who, where, why, and HOW of forest bathing.

(Hang in there with me… it’s not as hippy as it sounds)

(Some of the product links on this website are affiliate links of which Sunrises2Sunsets receives a small commission from sales, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases)

What is forest bathing?

Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese practice that involves spending time in nature in a mindful way. The goal is to connect with the natural world and experience its healing benefits. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in shinrin-yoku around the world, as people become more aware of the benefits of spending time in nature.

Participating in this activity simply involves “bathing” your senses in nature and fully engaging with your surroundings. You take in all the inputs for sight, smell, sound, touch, and possibly taste (if you know your plants + berries well). You may breathe in the scent of the flowers or the earthy aroma of the soil. You may hear the chirping of the birds or the rustling of the leaves in the wind. You may feel the coolness of the water or the rough texture of the bark on a tree.

---

---

Who developed it?

The Japanese government began to promote forest bathing as a way to improve public health in the 1980s.

The idea was created in response to the growing problem of stress and burnout in the workplace. It was recognized that people were spending too much time indoors and not enough time in nature.

“Some old-fashioned things like fresh air and sunshine are hard to beat.”

Laura Ingalls Wilder

A number of studies have been conducted on the effects of shinrin-yoku on Japanese people. One study found that shinrin-yoku reduced stress and improved mood in Japanese adults. Another study found that shinrin-yoku boosted the immune system in Japanese children.

A movement in the US was recently created (2013) from this same principle. Read about the “1000 Hours Outside” Challenge.

---

---

Where can I do it?

Forest bathing does not have to be done in a forest. Any outdoor location will work. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind when scouting for a prime spot:

• A place that is quiet and peaceful.
• Avoid places with a lot of traffic or noise.
• Choose a place where you can be surrounded by nature.
• Find a place where you can feel comfortable and relaxed.

Maybe you have a favorite field you could sit in? A peaceful hiking trail to walk? A calm pond to sit beside? Without knowing the term for it at the time, I have often done forest bathing while sitting in a kayak in the middle of a calm lake, watching the sunset.

---

---

Why should I forest bathe?

Research has shown that forest bathing has a number of benefits for both physical and mental health. For example, it has been shown to reduce stress, improve blood pressure and heart rate, boost the immune system, and increase creativity.

Forest bathing can help improve mood and overall well-being. By spending time in nature, individuals are able to disconnect from technology and the fast-paced demands of everyday life. This allows for an increased sense of relaxation, which can have a positive impact on mental health.

Another benefit is that it provides an opportunity for individuals to engage in light physical activity such as walking or hiking. This can improve cardiovascular health and increase overall fitness levels.

For more on the benefits of being in nature read “Nurtured by Nature” by the American Psychological Association.

How?

Forest bathing is a very simple practice. All you need to do is find a quiet place in nature and spend some time there, being present and mindful of your surroundings. You can walk, sit, or simply lie down and listen to the sounds of nature.

Engage all of your senses.

What do you see?

What do you hear?

What do you smell?

What do you feel?

Step it up a notch by taking one of the senses out of the equation. Taking one of the senses away can heighten the others. When we rely on our senses too much, we can become complacent with the information that is being received. By removing one sense, we challenge ourselves to rely on the other senses more heavily.

---

---

“Nature is not a place to visit, it is home.”

Gary Snyder

For example, closing our eyes and listening intently can help us pick up on subtle sounds that we may not have noticed before. Similarly, paying attention to smells can help us appreciate the intricacies of scents. This exercise not only helps us become more mindful of our surroundings but also encourages us to appreciate the world in a new way.

Shinrin-yoku can be practiced for as little as 10 minutes, but longer periods of time are even more beneficial.

Tips for your experience

• Turn off your phone and other electronic devices.
• Take slow, deep breaths.
• Pay attention to the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the natural world around you.
• If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the present moment.
• There is no right or wrong way to forest bathe. Simply relax and enjoy the experience.

Forest bathing is an excellent way to connect with nature and improve your overall well-being. It’s different from hiking or any other outdoor activity, as it encourages you to slow down and take in your surroundings. It is also a great way to connect with nature and

You might have experienced forest bathing to some extent before. But on your next trip out in nature, be more mindful, focus on the senses, and see if your experience differs any. And let me know!

---

---

---

Take a moment to visit…

---