Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku in Japanese, is a practice that involves spending time in a forest to connect with nature through your senses. It is a therapeutic way to relax and destress, and it can have many health benefits, such as improved blood circulation, better sleep quality, increased ability to focus, reduced stress, lower blood pressure, lower heart rate, and lower levels of stress hormones. The practice originated in Japan in the 1980s when doctors noticed that their patients were suffering from mental health issues. They believed that spending time in nature could help, and forest bathing became part of Japan’s national health program in 1982.
Although the occasional forest bathing for a few hours may help you unwind, you need to engage in forest bathing regularly to reap the benefits. If that is not doable, try bringing the outside in by getting a few potted plants, listening to recordings of forest sounds, or using an oil diffuser to fill your room with the smell of pine, fir, or eucalyptus trees. A 2009 study showed that being immersed in the scents of the forest may have a positive impact on your health.
Forest bathing is a great way to get started with mindfulness. Take the time to breathe deeply and turn your focus inward. If you can, leave your screen and worries behind and get yourself outside among the trees. It is worth it even if you can only spare a few minutes.