Why
Forest Bathing
"Nature is not a place to visit.
It is home."
Gary Snyder
"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." ~ John Muir
Shinrin Yoku (translated as Forest Bathing or Shower) is a term created by Tomohide Akiyama, Director General of the Agency of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan in the 1980s.
This scientifically proven practice enables us to connect with Nature and reconnect with ourselves; the benefits improve our own health and wellbeing and ultimately that of our planet and everything that lives within and on it.
​
Our ancestors watched, learned, took inspiration and guidance from Nature as they worked and moved through their lives.
Sadly, as humankind has evolved, this vital connection with Nature has unravelled. Nature is considered a resource to be used and exploited. As time moves forward so the divide widens becoming more & more damaging to our planet and all living things - including humankind.
Slowly change is materialising as the realisation and understanding of just how important it is for humankind to reconnect, to respect and to live with Nature. This change is linked to a resurgence in the practices that our ancestors followed (such as "Forest Bathing") by returning once more to a harmonious partnership which bring undeniable mutual benefits to our planet, everything and everyone.
Ongoing scientific research concerning the benefits of Forest Bathing have shown the positive effects on human health & wellbeing, including:
-
blood pressure
-
stress levels
-
blood sugar levels
-
mood & energy levels
-
cardiovascular & metabolic health
-
concentration & memory
-
pain thresholds
-
recovery from illness & injury
-
sleep patterns
-
depression, sadness & grief
-
anger
-
anxiety
as well as aid weight management, boost immune system and more .... the research continues
Some further reading
There are many publications, websites, research papers, etc. on the practices and benefits of Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku), for example:
"Into the Forest" - Dr Qing Li (Penguin Life: Penguin Books) ISBN 978-0-241-37759-8
"The Nature Fix" - Florence Williams (W.W.Norton & Company) ISBN 978-0-393-35557-4
​
Forest Medicine Therapy Society in Japan - https://fo-society.jp/forest-therapy-society/
The Association of Nature & Forest Therapy (US) some research & science papers - https://www.anft.earth/about/the-science
​
Nature and Therapy UK (my training) - https://natureandtherapy.co.uk/