What is Forest Bathing?

I have a confession to make, ya’ll. I am rapidly becoming a nature nerd.

I always feel amazing when I’m hiking, doing yoga or meditating outside, but I wanted to figure out why.

This is how I stumbled upon the Japanese therapy called shinrin-yoku or “forest bathing.” It is a popular form of preventative health care & healing which has steadily gained popularity since it began in the 1980s.

How does it work?

Step 1. Find a forest

Step. 2. Walk slowly in that forest and breathe deeply

That’s it!

Research mainly in Japan and South Korea has found that health benefits to be found from spending time in forests includes:

• Boosts immune system

• Lowers blood pressure

• Reduces stress

• Improves mood

• Increases ability to focus, even in children with ADHD

• Accelerates recovery from surgery or illness

• Increases energy level

• Improves sleep

Phytoncides are airborne chemicals that trees and plants give off to protect themselves from insects and also contain antibacterial and antifungal qualities to help them fight disease. When people breathe in these chemicals, our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of white blood cells, which boosts our immune systems.

Studies show that exercising among the trees reduces blood pressure and the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol.

If you want to read more fascinating forest facts, check out Dr. Qing Li’s book
Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness.

Namaste & Have A Great Day!

Miranda