Forest Bathing
Forest bathing is a style of therapy that, simply put, means to take in the forest or bushland around you through all of your senses. The term arose in Japan in the 1980’s (aka shinrin-yoku) to describe this physiological and psychological exercise. The purpose of this practice was to remedy burnout and tension from excess time spent immersed in technology, and to help people reconnect with and protect the nature living in their backyard.
Forest bathing is not just a mere walk in the woods, it is a conscious exchange and connection to the sights, sounds, smells, textures (and tastes if you’re daring enough) of the ecosystem around you.
More recently, scientific data has emerged that helps prove what the Japanese inherently knew many years ago. There is no reset quite like an eco-reset.
Exposure to forests and bushland has several effects on our health, including:
Strengthening the immune system
Reducing blood pressure and heart rate
Regulating the nervous system
Reducing stress and boosting mood
Increasing focus
Improving sleep
These health benefits are mostly a result of the high oxygen concentration in the forest and the presence of chemicals called phytoncides. Phytoncides have antibacterial and antifungal properties that increase the number and activity of our immune cells.
From a Chinese medicine perspective, being in the forest strengthens our Wood element. This in turn helps to circulate our Qi, nourish our Blood, and calm our Shen (mind/spirit).
Here are some tips to help you sink into your forest bathing experience:
Put away your phone so you are less easily distracted
Slow your breathing and focus your attention on fresh air from the forest entering your body
Walk slowly; remember this is not a hike, and there is no prize for finishing first
Focus on one sense at a time and let yourself be led by it
If you notice something you are drawn to, a flower for example, take a minute to stare at it and notice how it interacts with the environment around it
Utilise touch and walk barefoot (only where safe to do so). We have many receptors and nerve endings in our hands and feet, so this is a like an express way to absorb the goodness
Veronika Peovska
(BHSc Acupuncture)
“To be skilled at nurturing one’s nature and wellbeing is to treat disease before it arises.” - SUN SIMIAO
