Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) is an evidence-based, salutogenic nature connecting practice which encourages relaxation and awareness whilst relieving stress and enhancing overall sense of wellbeing. It embraces mindfulness principles, strengthens the relationship with nature, and stimulates all of the senses. As we connect to nature, we develop an understanding that humans are not separate from it, and with this comes a sense of belonging, purpose, and emotional awareness.
The relationship between human beings and the natural world has been of utmost importance since the dawn of time. Forest Bathing put into practice as a nature-based intervention also helps target specific mental and physiological health difficulties. Researchers have carried out studies on the benefits of spending time amongst the trees, demonstrating that it creates positively calming neuro-psychological effects through changes in the nervous system, reducing the stress hormone cortisol and boosting the immune system. Every study conducted has demonstrated reductions in stress, anxiety, anger, depression and insomnia amongst the participants - in fact after just 15 minutes of forest bathing, the blood pressure drops, stress levels are reduced, and concentration and mental clarity improve.
During a Forest Bathing experience, the guide facilitates a series of mindful, intentional, socially distant activities (called invitations) which help you engross yourself in a slow and engaging sensory experience. Healing comes directly from the connection between individuals and their natural surroundings by activating their senses and reconnecting them with the earth’s magnetic frequency. As a result, participants feel rejuvenated, benefit from clarity of mind and develop a sense of resilience.
Sessions are held outdoors in small groups, and last approximately 2-3 hours.
Shinrin-Yoku, translated into English as ‘forest bathing', means taking in the forest atmosphere during a leisurely walk. It is based on ancient Shinto and Buddhist practices, focused to let nature into the body through the 5 senses of seeing, hearing, touching, smelling and tasting.
The modern form of Shinrin-Yoku as a therapy was developed in Japan during the 1980s, as part of a national health programme designed to reduce population stress levels, soon becoming a cornerstone of preventive health care and healing in Japanese medicine.
Today, Forest Bathing is recognised by the medical profession across the world and is being widely recommended and prescribed by doctors and healthcare practitioners alike to improve people’s overall physical, mental and emotional health.
