Wellness tips: What is forest bathing?

Forest bathing or Shinrin-yoku

Another term that emerged from 1980’s Japan , forest bathing means “absorbing the forest atmosphere”and is essentially a combination of mindfulness and walking. Forest bathing emphasises the importance of reconnecting with nature and our surroundings, especially for people that live in modern-day cities. Did you know that the average American spends 93% of their time indoors?

Forest bathing consists of immersing yourself in nature by mindfully walking and connecting with the natural environment around you. Leave your phone behind (or in your pocket to avoid getting lost), slow down and use all your senses to absorb the world around you. Keep your eyes open, take deep breaths and stay as long as you feel comfortable.

The effects of this practice include blood pressure reduction, improvement of immune functions and improvement of mental health.

And if there is no forest near you, simply find a place with some trees or your garden and try it.