Forest bathing: What is it and where to do it?

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Have you ever felt the desire to escape the busy pace of life and surround yourself with the peace of nature? Forest bathing, inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, offers just that—an opportunity to connect deeply with nature without needing to take an actual bath.

Instead, it means immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the forest using all your senses.

Let's explore what forest immersion is, its benefits, and how you can make it a part of your life.

Why Should You Do Forest Bathing?

Benefits for the Mind and Mood

Forest immersion can help reduce stress and improve mood. Studies show that spending time in nature can increase relaxation and happiness by calming our senses (Lee et al., 2011)

This study highlights how being in forests can help us feel better.

Improving Physical Health

Being in the forest isn't just good for your mind—it's good for your body too. Breathing in forest air, which contains plant compounds called terpenes, can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, and keep your heart healthy, helping you feel rejuvenated overall (Cho et al., 2017).

Getting Started with Forest Bathing

1. Choose a Place: Any forest or green area that you enjoy can be a great starting point. It's important to pick somewhere easy to access, like a nearby park.

2. Take a Break from Screens: Put away your electronic devices so you can fully focus on being in nature.

3. Use Your Senses: Take time to look, listen, smell, touch, and even taste the natural world around you.

4. Explore Slowly: Take a leisurely walk, letting your curiosity guide you, and take in the beauty of nature.

5. Make it Regular: Try to incorporate forest immersion into your routine to experience its benefits more consistently.

Best Places for Forest Bathing

While you can practice forest bathing in any natural setting, some places offer organized programs to enhance the experience. These include the Adirondack Mountains in New York, the lush forests of Costa Rica, the ancient Waipoua Forest in New Zealand, the Matthews Range in Kenya, and the vibrant landscapes of Hawaii.

These places offer guided experiences that deepen your connection to nature and promote your well-being.

Adirondack Mountains, New York: Nestled within the expansive Adirondack Park, this region boasts a vast expanse of evergreen forests and provides a natural "phytoncide shower" that enhances immunity.

Guided experiences are available through Adirondack Riverwalking in Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and the Wild Center. [Learn more about forest bathing in the Adirondacks]

Costa Rica: With more than half of its territory covered in forests, Costa Rica stands as a biodiversity hotspot, offering an ideal setting for forest bathing.

Sentir Natural provides guided walks led by Manuela Siegfried, the country's first certified guide. [Discover forest bathing in Costa Rica]

New Zealand: The Waipoua Forest, located on the North Island, is renowned for its ancient and sacred kauri trees.

Māori-guided walks, such as the Twilight Encounter by Footprints Waipoua, blend nature immersion with cultural storytelling. [Experience forest bathing in New Zealand]

Kenya: The ancient forests of the Matthews Range offer guided walks led by local Samburu trackers, providing a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a sensory-rich environment. [Explore forest bathing in Kenya]

Hawaii: Hawaii's lush forests and deep cultural reverence for nature make it an ideal destination for forest bathing.

Forest Bathing Hawai'i offers guided walks that help participants connect with the life-giving energy of the land. [Learn about forest bathing in Hawaii]

Common Questions about Forest Immersion

Do I need special equipment?

No, you don't need anything special—just an open mind and comfortable clothes suitable for the weather.

How long should I spend in the forest?

It's up to you! You can spend anywhere from an hour to several hours, depending on what feels right for you.

Can I do forest immersion in any season?

Yes, you can! Each season offers its own unique experiences, so you can enjoy forest immersion all year round.

By embracing forest immersion, you're not just taking a walk in the woods; you're engaging in a practice that fosters a deep connection with nature and provides benefits for both your mind and body.

What is your favorite forest to bathe in? Hit reply to this email, especially if you're in Europe and I can visit.

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