Forest bathing

Many of us know that walking leisurely under the canopy of trees in a wood or forest generates a sense of calm wellbeing; time seems to slow down and tension seems to evaporate. Stress-busting benefits also accrue when we are being mindful and paying careful attention to the all the senses – noticing colours, textures, patterns, smells, sounds and more. Studies have shown that it’s not just psychological wellbeing; there are also positive physiological health effects. And now ‘forest therapy’ is becoming increasingly promoted in the UK.

The National Trust website explains: “Forest bathing or ‘shinrin-yoku’ was first developed in Japan in the 1980s, following scientific studies conducted by the government. The results showed that two hours of mindful exploration in a forest could reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels and improve concentration and memory. They also found that trees releases chemicals called phytoncides, which have an anti-microbial effect on human bodies, boosting the immune system. As a result of this research, the Japanese government introduced ‘shinrin-yoku’ as a national health programme.” (www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/a-beginners-guide-to-forest-bathing)

Find out more at: The Forest Bathing Institute (tfb.institute);  www.forestryengland.uk/blog/forest-bathing ; or read books by Japanese forest therapy experts: Into the Forest by Dr Qing Li or Shinrin-yoku by Yoshifumi Miyazaki.