Discover the Calming Power of Forest Bathing

In a world brimming with stress, forest bathing offers a free, accessible path to tranquility. This practice, also known as shinrin-yoku, allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature’s embrace, potentially reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.

Unveiling Forest Bathing

Forest bathing, which originated in Japan during the 1980s, involves intentionally engaging with the sights, sounds, and sensations of a forest. It provides a chance for people to escape high-stress lifestyles.

During a forest bathing session, one can walk slowly, sit, or recline. The focus is on soaking in the natural surroundings. The goal is to achieve a sense of relaxation.

Science-Backed Benefits

The practice of forest bathing is supported by scientific research. It can significantly lower cortisol levels, thereby reducing stress immediately. A study of nearly 20,000 individuals in the UK showed that spending at least 120 minutes weekly in nature boosted health and happiness.

“Forest bathing involves entering a deeper level of consciousness that activates the parasympathetic nervous system—the part of our nervous system that’s responsible for rest and relaxation.”

—Dr. Suzanne Hackenmiller, Chief Medical Advisor at AllTrails

A recent study indicates that even brief exposure to nature can have an immediate impact. The benefits of forest bathing are accessible, needing only a green space to experience them. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, people spend an average of 90% of their time indoors, underscoring the need for nature contact (EPA 2023).

My Forest Bathing Experience

Participating in a group session, the experience involved lying in the forest for ten minutes. The act of gazing at the shapes and colors of the leaves and listening to birdsong quieted my thoughts. I felt completely relaxed afterwards.

This experience served as a reminder of the ease with which I could practice it at home. A simple nature walk would be sufficient.

Is Forest Bathing Worth It?

The positive effects of spending time in nature can be felt within the first few minutes. More than half of people surveyed are motivated to spend time outdoors because of this emotional boost.

“I’m a firm believer that everyone can benefit from forest bathing. Sometimes it can be hard to believe that something so simple and so primal as stepping outdoors can be healing.”

—Dr. Suzanne Hackenmiller

Anyone can benefit from forest bathing, regardless of prior experience. The only requirement is access to a green space, even a local park.