The Shinrin-yoku: The Japanese Art also known as “forest bath” that improves health
Forest Bath
Shinrin Yoku or ‘forest bath’ was developed in Japan in the 1980s and brings together ancient ways and wisdom with cutting edge environmental health science. There are now forest bathing stations and walkways scattered throughout Japan, although the good news is that we can all benefit from this simple practice.
Forest bathing is the practice of walking slowly through the woods, in no hurry, for a morning, an afternoon or a day. It is a practice that involves all the senses and as you gently walk and breathe deeply, the essential oils of the trees are absorbed by your body and have an extraordinary effect on stress levels, positive feelings, energy levels and even promote the activity of NK (anticancer) cells and the balancing of blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
What can be done in the Shinrin-yoku
The centre piece of forest bathing is undoubtedly meditation mindfulness that is, being present with body and mind in the present moment, focusing on oneself and the natural world around. Other activities can be long, slow walks, meditation, breathing exercises and tree hugging.
The benefits of the Shinrin-yoku
The positive effects are innumerable, as also shown in a 2010 study entitled “The Claim: Exposure to Plants and Parks Can Boost Immunity” and published at New York Times. An increase in immune function is one of the most immediate benefits, but other benefits have also been noted, as reported in another study, “Shinrin-yoku: the Medicine of Being in the Forest”. In this article, decreased heart rate and blood pressure are reported, as well as decreased stress and cures for depression.
The premise is to really try: it is an active exercise
The crux of the whole matter is that it is not enough to take a jaunt into a forest to feel immediate benefits. It is more of a mental exercise that one comes to with time, practice and concentration. One needs to make an effort to perceive all things with the five senses; one must try to abandon thoughts of the city and technology. Immersing oneself in the forest is a conscious exercise that must be embraced in its entirety if it is to be effective.
