Forest Bathing: The Japanese Habit of Slowing Down Among Trees
In Japan, "shinrin-yoku" means taking in the forest with all your senses. You don't need a forest to try it.
Photo by Maxim Hopman on Unsplash
In the 1980s, Japan's forestry agency began promoting a practice called shinrin-yoku, which means "forest bathing." It has nothing to do with water. It simply means spending time in a forest and taking it in slowly, with all your senses.
What it looks like
Forest bathing is not hiking. There is no destination and no speed. You walk slowly, stop often, and notice: the smell of the earth, the light through the leaves, the sound of birds, the feel of bark under your hand.
What research suggests
Researchers in Japan and elsewhere have studied forest bathing. Some studies found lower stress measures and better mood after time in a forest compared with time in a city. Many studies are small, and more research is needed, but the findings fit with what many people feel: time among trees is calming.
How to try it
1. Find a wood, park or tree-lined path. 2. Leave your phone in your bag on silent. 3. Walk slowly. Stop whenever something catches your attention. 4. Breathe slowly and notice the smells around you. 5. Touch a tree trunk, a leaf or the moss. 6. Sit for a few minutes and just listen.
Even twenty minutes can feel restful.
No forest nearby?
A city park, a garden, a single big tree on your street: the idea is the same. Slow down, use your senses and let nature hold your attention for a while.
Stay safe
Stay on paths, tell someone where you are going if you go far, and check for ticks after walking in long grass.
