Forest Bathing: The Green Secret to a Happier Life

 

March 21 is the time to celebrate the International Day of Forests, established in 2012 to celebrate, enjoy, and raise awareness about forests. It’s more than just about their obvious relevance for life—it’s also about protecting and enjoying them.

One of the most valuable ways to spend this International Day of Forests is by volunteering on local tree planting campaigns and preservation efforts. Another, more reflective way of celebrating involves forest bathing.

But put down the soap and bath bombs—it’s not that type of bathing.

 

What is Forest Bathing?

 

Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese practice that originated in the 1980s. Despite what its name may imply, it does not involve body washing. Although it literally means “forest bathing,” its true cultural meaning is more akin to “taking in the forest atmosphere.”

It was conceived to become a physical and psychological exercise meant to offer inner peace within a forest. It was supposed to work on two levels: offer a chance to reconnect with nature and away from tech burnout while giving value and importance to the country’s forests.

Although the practice as we know it has Japanese origins, the concept itself has been prevalent across countries. After all, humans instinctively have chased nature for physical and mental well-being.

 

How Do You Practice Forest Bathing?

 

Forest bathing has few rules and plenty of room for creativity, as everyone can take in a forest’s sights and sounds in whichever way they find most pleasing. However, even though the rules are what you make them to be, there is undoubtedly a technique or method to follow.

To engage in forest bathing, the most crucial step is to spend time within nature. It’s not enough to be there—you must bathe in the forest atmosphere as much as possible. That means no electronics and, if possible, no worries about your daily life.

 

The best approach involves ensuring you engage your five senses within the forest:

 

– Take in the beautiful sights of nature—the lush greenery, the colour of wildflowers around you, and even the sky above and the earth below.

– Enjoy nature’s best sounds, such as the crunch of leaves as you walk, the chirping of insects, and the singing of birds. If you’re lucky, even the sound of running water nearby.

– Delight in the smell and taste of nature: the crisp fresh air, petrichor, flowers, and plants.

– Touch the grass, ground, bark, and leaves.

 

Many people mix wellness practices with forest bathing, including meditation or yoga.

 

The Benefits of Forest Bathing

 

It’s well-known that spending time in nature can make you feel better. Still, forest bathing also has some scientifically backed benefits, as countless studies show.

In 2007, research determined that forest therapy can reduce cortisol. This stress hormone works alongside the sympathetic nervous system and is responsible for the “fight or flight” response. Similarly, another study concluded that walking four hours in the forest could increase the number of anti-cancer proteins and immune cells.

Likewise, forest bathing involves being surrounded by oxygen-producing greenery, so it can positively impact your brain’s oxygen levels and, thus, benefit general brain function.

 

Forest Bathing Whenever and Wherever You Can

 

The benefits of connecting with nature and finding inner peace amidst the lush trees are countless—scientifically proven or not. Humans instinctively crave the sights of nature, so celebrating the International Day of Forests like this is only appropriate.

If you live in the city, don’t despair—going to your local park may not be the same, but it’s an approachable and easy option that allows you to interact with green spaces, induce happiness, reduce stress, and tune in with the Earth and the universe!