Forest Bathing for Health
Trees have many health benefits; from essential tree oils that contribute to increased energy to the oxygen it produces for us to breathe. This Facebook video posted by the World Economic Forum, reveals that forests lower heart and blood pressure as well as reducing stress hormones. When it comes to taking advantage of these benefits, the majority of urban living humans have pushed it aside spending up to 90% of their time indoors. This is why we need Forest Bathing.
The concept called shinrin-yoku, also known as Forest Bathing, involves spending a prolonged period of time in nature, specifically with trees. It might look a lot like walking through nature.
Shinrin-yoku is a practice that originates from Japan. An ancient tradition, Shinrin-yoku is meant to balance out the heaviness that comes with urban living. In his book, Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health & Happiness, Dr. Qing Li, the world’s foremost expert in forest medicine, explains the art and science of how trees can promote health and happiness.
“Being in nature can restore our mood, give us back our energy and vitality, refresh and rejuvenate us,” says Li. It’s true! Every time I find myself in nature, I feel refreshed and excited to continue my projects. I feel confident in myself. My energy is recharged and my mind begins to focus more. In Li’s book, you read about the answers to questions such as: What is this secret power of trees that make us healthier and happier? Why is it we feel less stressed and have more energy just by walking in the forest? You may want to consider some of your own answers to these questions. Additionally, his book is filled with gorgeous photos of different forests and colorful trees.
When was the last time you spent a significant time outdoors? Have you ever stopped under a towering tree under its umbrellaing branches and let the sun strain its rays through the leaves? Breathed it in? Maybe sat at its base and listened to the rustle as the wind blows by? Try it. Perhaps you think to yourself, “but I don’t have time for this.” You don’t have to do it very long. Take 15 minutes to step away from the emails, Facebook and Snapchat, Netflix and HBO GO. Take few steps through your neighborhood park and “bathe” in the trees.
Helpful Links
Shinrin-Yoku (a site dedicated to the practice)
NPR: Forest Bathing: A Retreat To Nature Can Boost Immunity And Mood
From Mind, Body, Green: Everything you need to know about Forest Bathing
Also from Mind, Body, Green: Why You Need To Try Japanese Forest Bathing
Mind, Body, Green: The Magic of Forest Bathing: How to Incorporate It Into Your Selfcare Routine
As a photographer, I thoroughly enjoyed this post from The New Yorker: A Japanese Photographer Captures the Mysterious Power of Forest Bathing
Join one of our workshops or Adventure Days for some Forest Bathing of your own!
Find some like-minded souls and join our Facebook group of inspiration, discussion, and sharing of our adventures!