Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is a practice that originates in Japan. It involves spending time in nature, specifically in the forest, for relaxation and improving one's health.

But what are the actual benefits of forest bathing? And how can you do it? In this blog post, we will explore all things forest bathing so that you can decide if it's something you'd like to try.

What is forest bathing?

Forest bathing, known as shinrin-yoku, means "taking in the forest atmosphere." It is a practice done anywhere there are trees and plants. Forest bathing has many benefits, including reducing stress and improving mood, alleviating anxiety, aiding heart health, and enhancing sleep quality.

There are many ways to enjoy forest bathing. One way is to walk in the park or the woods. You can also lie down or sit on the ground to get closer to the plants and trees. You can even do some yoga or meditation in the forest. There is no right or wrong way to do it. The important thing is to be present and focus on your senses.

The best time to go for a forest bath is early morning or late evening when fewer people are around. But you can go at any time that works for you. Ensure you have left your phone and camera at home so you can be fully present.

When you are ready, find a comfortable spot and take deep breaths. Listen to the sounds of nature around you. Notice the different smells of the plants and trees. Feel the texture of the bark or leaves beneath you. Let your mind wander and take it all in. Take your time to relax and de-stress.

The science behind forest bathing

We all know that spending time in nature can make us feel good. We have known it for centuries. The sounds of the forest, the scent of the trees, the sunlight playing through the leaves, and the fresh, clean air give us a sense of comfort. They ease our stress and worry, help us relax, and think more clearly. Being in nature can restore our mood, give us energy and vitality, and refresh and rejuvenate us.

But what is this feeling that is so hard to put into words? And why does it seem to be so much more than just a pleasant diversion?

There is a growing body of scientific evidence that suggests that time spent in nature can have profound effects on our health. One study found that office workers who took a 20-minute walk in a park on their lunch break had lower levels of stress hormones afterward than those who ate their lunch while sitting inside.

Another study found that people with chronic fatigue syndrome who did three hours of moderate exercise in forests over two days had less fatigue and anxiety and better sleep afterward than those who didn't exercise.

What happens when we spend time in nature?

One theory is that it has to do with something called phytoncides. Phytoncides are airborne chemicals that plants release to protect themselves from insects and other animals. Breathing in phytoncides may trigger an increase in natural killer cells, which are part of our immune system. Natural killer cells help us to fight infections and cancer.

Another theory is that being in nature reduces our stress hormones, such as cortisol, and increases our serotonin levels, which is a feel-good chemical.

Whatever the reasons, there is no doubt that time spent in nature can positively affect our health. So go ahead and take a walk in the park. It might be good for you!

Forest bathing tips

Here are a few tips to get the most out of your forest bathing experience:

1. Ensure you have enough time – avoid rushing through your walk. It is not a race! Take your time and savor the experience.

2. Disconnect from technology – leave your phone and camera behind so you can be fully present in the moment. Let nature surround and rejuvenate you.

3. Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down – once you've found a spot you like, take some deep breaths and let the fresh air fill your lungs. Listen to the sounds of nature and allow your body to soften and quiet your mind.

4. Bring some snacks and drinks – if you start to feel peckish, have something light to eat or drink. Snacking will help keep your energy levels up to enjoy your walk more.

5. Plan – ensure you know where you're going and what time it will take to relax better and enjoy the journey.

Most famous places for forest bathing

There are many famous places for forest bathing, but some of the most popular ones include:

1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee: This park is one of the most biodiverse in the United States and home to over 100 species of trees. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and camping in this beautiful setting.

2. Yosemite National Park in California: This park is well-known for its waterfalls, cliffs, and giant sequoia trees. Hiking and rock climbing are popular activities here.

3. The Amazon Rainforest: The largest tropical rainforest in the world, the Amazon is home to an incredible array of plant and animal life. Visitors can take jungle hikes, riverboat rides, and even zip-line through the canopy.

4. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda: This park is home to over 400 species of trees, gorillas, chimpanzees, and other primates. Hiking through the dense forest is a popular activity here.

5. Shinji Shumeikai Forest Therapy Base in Japan: This forest Therapy Base is in a cedar forest near Mt. Fuji and offers a variety of programs designed to help visitors relax and de-stress.

These are just a few of the many famous places for forest bathing. Wherever you go, make sure to take some time to enjoy the beauty and peace of nature.

Final thoughts

Forest bathing is a practice done anywhere there are trees and plants. Forest bathing has many benefits, including reducing stress, improving moods, reducing anxiety and depression, reducing blood pressure and heart rate, and even improving sleep quality. If you live in an area with trees and plants, we encourage you to go out and try forest bathing for yourself!

We invite you to join us in forest bathing at our 2024 Nourish + Nurture Retreats in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here, we experience rebirthing and restoration as we immerse ourselves in the Rich Cove Forest niche, which supports many trees and plants. Red maple, oak, basswood, and poplar are only a few types of trees growing here. Spring wildflowers and medicinal herbs flourish here. Mosses and rotting logs make the damp forest floor suitable for various salamanders and one of the most diverse ecosystems outside the tropics.