Forest bathing
The Japanese practice of Forest Bathing or Shinrin-yoku, first came to prominence in the early 1980s and refers quite simply, to mindfully immersing oneself in nature. In a country known for it’s demanding work schedules and ruthless workplace practices in the endeavor of economic and technological advancement, along with a high regard for material wealth, awareness began to grow of the potentially devastating health consequences emerging in relation to these hectic, stressful and tech-heavy lifestyles in the country. Increasing rates of physical and mental health problems linked with degrees of workplace and lifestyle stress were becoming a louder concern for the urban people of Japan. So much so in fact, the nation even developed a word to capture the increasing number of sudden deaths by stroke, heart attack and suicide considered to be work-stress related - Karoshi.
In a nation with strong roots in Zen Buddhism and inspired by the Shinto reverence for nature, a public health initiative was established after the forestry ministry coined the phrase Shinrin-yoku, and began promoting nature immersion and appreciation as a tonic for these health-robbing careers. Government supported research, focussed on the measurable psychological and physiological health benefits of spending time in the forest, soon followed. What this research revealed was that recovery from stress begins, within minutes of forest bathing therapy. Decreases in blood pressure, stress hormone release and muscle tension were all documented along with individuals reporting less brain fog, decreases in anxiety, improvements in mood and increased energy levels. Phytoncides which are air-borne essential oils found in wood, plants and some fruits and vegetables, and emitted by trees to protect themselves from attack from foreign invaders, seem to actually improve immune function in humans. Research relating to the activity of human natural killer cells in the immune system pre and post forest bathing, showed an increase in activity that could be sustained for up to a month post visit! So it was declared that forest bathing was a reputable antidote to a hectic and stressful work life, and the country enthusiastically encouraged this nature therapy for its people. The rest of the world began to take notice of the science that supported what most people already innately knew...spending time in nature is good for us.
Of course, the concept had long been around. Many cultures throughout the world have celebrated the connection between time in the natural world and human health. Indigenous and ancient populations have been connecting with nature and revering its offerings for more than 50 000 years.
So how does one actually Forest Bathe?
Well, the advice seems to be, go in silence and go slowly. Tap into all of your senses. Bring your attention and awareness to the current moment and the environment around you. It’s important to acknowledge the history of the land you’re on and the diversity of life there. Meander gently, aimlessly. Slow down and connect with the forest, and in turn yourself. Perhaps sit quietly for a time and just absorb the medicine.
For those still wondering, there is no actual bathing in a body of water involved, but perhaps if you find one, you might want to add that in. Take your shoes off and wander in a shallow stream or float under a waterfall.
The activity is intended to be mild. It doesn’t matter your fitness level, anyone can partake. Enjoy forest bathing throughout the seasons and in different weather. I personally love to wander amongst the trees when it’s raining.
You might like to take it one step further, and following a period of bathing, continue on with your meditation, yoga or breathing practice within the forest.
The peaceful environment promotes relaxation and can facilitate a greater sense of ease or deeper connection with these practices.
Lucky are we in Australia, as our opportunities to bathe in nature are endless. You don’t have to wander in the forest though. Consciously connecting with nature can still be achieved in urban areas. Evidence suggests that a large dose is not necessarily required, benefits can still be achieved just through spending slow, mindful time amongst the trees in a park.
In many parts of the world, guided therapy sessions, and even medical assessments with prescribed plans now exist as part of individualised forest therapy management. The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy is a global leader promoting the practice of forest therapy as a research based framework for supporting healing and wellness. They offer guide training incorporating ancient traditions with current science to credential guides in the field of nature connection. These folk seek to build on the established health benefits and look even further into what happens, when humans remember that they are part of nature, not separate from it. The guides are trained to facilitate a practice that cultivates an experience of deepening the relationship of reciprocity, supporting wholeness and wellness for both practitioner and therapist (the forest).
With so many of us across the globe now living in major cities, it seems that more than ever, we need to consciously carve out time to spend in nature. If you’re taking a holistic approach to your health and wellness, spending time with the trees should definitely be part of your plan. The method can be as simple or as structured as you choose.
Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of forest bathing or nature therapy is, it’s free. While looking after many elements of our health does have a financial cost to it, this one really doesn’t. So try spending a little more quiet time with the trees. It won’t cost you anything, and it may pay dividends.
*I’m a passionate life long student and my blog posts intend to share information only. If something peaks your interest, I encourage you to do your own research, and seek further advice and support through your health and wellness providers. If you’d like to consult with me, please get in touch.*