In honor of Earth Day (even though it was technically yesterday), this week’s post is something I learned while researching druids. Did you know that forest-bathing is a real thing?
The idea comes from Japan originally, but has become a global practice. Here’s an official definition:
Forest bathing and forest therapy (or shinrin-yoku) broadly means taking in, in all of one’s senses, the forest atmosphere. Not simply a walk in the woods, it is the conscious and contemplative practice of being immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of the forest.
Global Wellness Institute, here
It can sound a little like some kind of enlightened meditation, but really, the point is to be in the woods and focus on being there. A basic step-by-step guide would run like this:
- find a patch of woods (or even just one tree can do, in a pinch)
- turn off your phone
- walk (or sit, or stand, or dance, whatever you like) and make sure to notice the nature around you!
There have been studies in Japan showing that forest bathing reduces stress and increases feelings of happiness and connection. And really, what better way to continue celebrating the Earth?
Go out and enjoy! 🙂
Further Reading
There’s a lot of new articles and books out there on this topic, but a fun book I found is The Little Book of Forest Bathing, from Andrew McMeel Publishing. I think in this particular case, though, the best research is to go out and try it for yourself!
