Forest bathing: Many people have heard of it but they still have no idea exactly what it is, where it came from, or why people do it. In literal terms, it sounds like one is saving their rubber ducky for a trip to the local woods. However, in metaphorical terms, it's a way to release tension and take in the calm and serenity of the nature that surrounds a person.
In reality, forest bathing has nothing to do with water or a bathtub. Rather, it's a means to connect with nature in a way that goes beyond simply hiking. Here's where the idea of forest bathing came from, how it works, and why.
Where Did Forest Bathing Come From?
Contrary to the fact that it seems like a technique that would be centuries old, it's quite new. The idea of forest bathing only came about during the 1980s and was first created in Japan. There, it was originally called shirin-yoku, which translates, quite literally, to 'taking in the forest atmosphere.' This translation gives a bit more insight into what the purpose of forest bathing truly is: a means to absorb that which surrounds us. In this case, the peacefulness of the surrounding landscape. The art of forest bathing was officially acknowledged by Japan's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries pretty early on in 1982. It wasn't until the 1990s when the actual health benefits of forest bathing began to be studied, with positive results. While it was a therapeutic technique almost immediately, it had since faded out - until recently.
While it sounds like just a walk in the park, the actual act of forest bathing is far more intricate than that. It doesn't involve hiking and, in fact, the goal is to avoid hiking. The purpose is to be as light-footed and calm as possible which often does not include strenuous attempts to amble over rock scrambles. The hike doesn't even need to be in a remote area and can take place easily within a city park or anywhere that trees and nature are abundant. The point is this: a person who's forest bathing should be able to disconnect.
How To Go Forest Bathing
Interested forest bathers can leave their bathing suits at home because all that's really needed are some comfortable clothes and comfortable shoes if one chooses to wear them at all. Before heading onto a trail or into the woods, all phones and electronics should be put on silent. The setting doesn't even need to be densely wooded - it could be a lakeside, a city park, or even just a green space that's quiet enough that one can clear their minds.
To start, these things should be done first:
- Opt for eyes closed or open to take in all of the surrounding sounds, scents, and movements (wind, warmth from sun rays, etc.)
- Take in a deep breath
- Consider meditating for a few minutes before starting to walk
- When forest bathing from a stationary position, be sure to pick a serene spot
From there, the practice is left up to the first bather. It can vary in length anywhere from ten minutes to hours, and some people opt to go on forest bathing tours to experience the full range of benefits.
Taking a forest bathing tour with a guide can offer a myriad of benefits:
- Guided meditations are usually held
- The pressure is relieved from one individual having to be aware of their surroundings
- Forest bathing with others can create a positive social experience
- It can help existing family members or friends bond and find ways to relax together
- Guides can show forest bathers new locations or aspects of nature they've never noticed
Tip: When forest bathing for the first time, it's helpful to focus on one thing such as the way the trees, grass, or leaves move in the wind. When forest bathing at a setting near the water, consider watching the waves or any ripples on the surface.
Therapeutic Benefits
It's no secret that spending time in nature is stress-relieving. For most people, just the simple act of calming their minds and getting away from the information overload of daily life is enough to set off a type of reset, thus allowing some of that everyday tension to melt away. Forest bathing works on a similar level with the exception that it's far more intensive, encouraging people to be in tune with their surroundings and take in the sense of calm that exists once we leave our cities and towns.