Eli London
In our fast-paced, technology-first world, an ancient practice exists which allows us to reconnect with the natural world. Originating in Japan, forest bathing has gained global recognition for its remarkable mental health benefits.
Back in 1982, the term was coined by the Japanese Ministry for Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. The department invested $4 million in forest bathing and set up the International Society of Nature and Forest Medicine. Even today, the society is still thriving, with different chapters all over the world.
Since the idea was conceptualised in the 90s, psychologists have been interested in the practice of “taking the forest in”.
What Is Forest Bathing?
“This is not just for barefoot wilderness dwellers”
Forest bathing involves immersing oneself in nature, which can rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit.
It’s not about point-to-point physical activity or goal-oriented hikes. Instead, it’s a slow, sensory-rich practice that focuses on the experience of the forest. The gentle rustling of leaves, the smell of pine or peony, dappled sunlight filtering through the trees, mist rising as it warms the earth. This is not just for barefoot wilderness dwellers — taking the time to connect with any natural environment will produce a similar effect. Forest bathing emphasises the importance of slowness and stillness.
Some countries (namely Japan, Peru, and Kenya) offer more structured practices and forest retreats. But wherever there is life, you can practice it.
The Benefits Of Forest Bathing
Scientific evidence has significant implications for the emerging field of forest medicine and its potential for preventive healthcare. Forest bathing has been found to reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Researchers have also documented physiological changes, such as lower heart rates and cortisol levels, in individuals who regularly spend time in nature.
“This holistic approach to self-care is the best way to maintain our long-term health”
It may also be considered in future city and town plans, especially in a world looking to conserve our natural spaces. The average American spends 87 per cent of their time in enclosed spaces, despite the human desire for the great outdoors.
This kind of practice allows us to really connect with our environment. It’s not about humans coexisting with nature, but knowing we are an integral part of the natural world. This holistic approach to self-care is the best way to maintain our long-term health.
‘Tis The Season For Forest Bathing
Observing the seasonal transitions in nature mirrors our own internal shifts and personal growth. We are inherently intertwined with circadian rhythms and our reliance on nature to survive. We learn from the resilience of the trees, the changing weather, and the predictability of environmental succession and species migration.
The transition from summer, where we can soak up some vitamin D and take advantage of long days, to autumn offers an opportunity to observe nature. It’s a great time to practice mindfulness and appreciate the beauty of the moment. It begins to rain more, leaves fall, and the air becomes colder. While we notice the first robin of the season and experience the crunch of frost on a patch of grass, we’re reminded that life deserves our full attention.
Fleeting, beautiful, and poetic, autumn reminds us of the impermanence of life. It makes us think about how the journey is as important as the destination. By embracing forest bathing and nature, we can nurture our mental well-being, but also deepen our understanding of our place in the world.
You can learn more about practising forest bathing by reading this helpful guide from Forestry England.
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PUMPKIN SPICE AND SWEATERS: HOW AUTUMN IMPROVES WELL-BEING
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EMBRACING THE PUMPKIN SPICE SWEATER WEATHER COSY GIRL AUTUMN
Featured image courtesy of Jay Mantri on Unsplash. No changes made to this image. Image license found here.
