I’m a huge fan of connecting with nature, and one of my favourite things to do is walk through the forest.  Whenever I’m feeling disjointed; anxious, frustrated, or depressed, spending time on my yoga mat, or in nature, usually prevents me from going down the rabbit hole of despair.  

More lockdowns and states of emergency being imposed will increase our collective fatigue, uncertainty, impatience, and exasperation.   Getting outdoors has helped me maintain my sanity and in the last week, I’ve hiked every day at one of the local trails close to my home.  It doesn’t matter what negative emotions I feel upon my departure, I always feel much better when returning home; calm, energized, present and grounded. 

I was delighted when I recently discovered a term for this called “Forest Bathing” that is practiced in Japan.  In Japanese, it’s called shinrin-yoku. Shinrin  means “forest,” and yoku means “bath.” So shinrin-yoku means bathing in the forest or taking in the forest through our senses.  In 1982, Forest Bathing became part of a national public health program in Japan and has continued to be a large part of preventative healing in Japanese medicine.

Health Benefits from Forest Bathing

Japanese scientists have concluded that Forest Bathing has an essential place in their health care system.  General research suggests long-term benefits such as reduced stress, improved immunity, lower blood pressure and accelerated recovery from illness or trauma.  I would also add that it offers an expeditious way to reduce my stress levels.  

How to Practice Forest Bathing 

The practice of Forest Bathing is different than a run or brisk walk through the forest.  It involves a slower pace- pausing, engaging all your senses by touching a tree trunk, noticing the array of colours, textures and gorgeous aromas, and even sitting on the ground and taking it all in.  Most of my hikes are vigorous, and since I’ve learned about forest bathing, I take one plodding, more present walk, once a week.    I’ve been amazed by the beauty that I’ve noticed at this slower pace and a little sad that I walked by it 100’s of times.  

At this time of year, the trees and ground are blanketed in lovely powder snow.  On my “forest bathing” walks I’ve discovered so much colour; vibrant autumn leaves that couldn’t let go, bright red stalks, deep green grass, and crimson red berries.  I’ve never noticed the immense variety of tree bark textures; smooth, rough, cracked and curly strips.

I don’t know why the forest has such a positive impact on our spirit-though I’m sure all the oxygen the trees emit has something to do with it, not to mention the beauty of it all. 

Try some Forest Bathing and let nature nurture you. 

Next week, I will share how to make a beautiful “forest bouquet” -even in the winter.  

Be well.

Anita