What Is Forest Bathing And Why Should We Care?

Forest Bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, was developed in Japan in the 80s, and thanks to a growing body of research on its effectiveness it's reaching us in all corners of the world. It involves visiting a natural area, walking in a relaxed way, and paying attention to the present moment.
 
I think of Forest Bathing kind of like allowing the canopy of the forest to shower you with a sense of calm, peace, and rejuvenation. Plus, research studies have shown it to boost immunity, improve mood, increase energy, lower stress, improve sleep, and more.
 
My clients often ask me for low or no-cost antidotes to fatigue, stress, depression, digestive distress and overall weariness. I continually suggest time in nature as an affordable, easy and enjoyable therapy to improve health.
 
However, spending time in the forest blasting music into our ears, burying our faces in our phones or cycling through our to-do lists in our minds doesn’t cut it. There is an element of mindfulness in Forest Bathing that is important. Engaging all of our senses, quieting our voices and our minds, and really paying attention are important so we can receive all of the healing effects of nature.
 
Experiment with Forest Bathing on your own, or if you live in the Bay Area and want to try some guided Forest Bathing, consider joining me for the Nourish in Nature Experience on October 19. It’s a 2-hour Forest Bathing and connection event that will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated.
 
Check out the Nourish in Nature Experience.
 
Learn more about Forest Bathing.