Reconnecting with Nature: The Healing Power of Forest Bathing
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Do you feel drawn to the great outdoors when you feel the need to take a breather? Many of us do. Somehow, being in the presence of trees and ample greenery perks us up. Humans have long cherished the natural forest environment for its shelter and beauty.
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Forest bathing is simply the act of basking in nature. Also known as shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is a Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in nature by spending time in a quiet, forested environment to promote health and well-being as part of a national public health programme in Japan.
Forest Bathing is About Being Present
Forest bathing is not about accomplishments or scaling that mountain summit, but rather, immersing in the moment, taking in nature’s raw beauty for what it is. Unlike typical hiking or outdoor activities, forest bathing focuses on mindfulness, slowing down, and being in the moment as one takes in the natural surroundings, engaging all the senses—sight, sound, touch, and smell.
Unlike hiking, the goal isn’t physical exertion but focuses on nature immersion. Coupled with the Japanese worldview of appreciating imperfection and accepting transience – wabi sabi – a contemplative walk in the forest allows the participant to appreciate and reflect on nature’s raw, often imperfect beauty.
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Forest Bathing Benefits Both the Mind and Body
A research investigated the effects of a forest bathing on cardiovascular and metabolic parameters and they found that the forest bathing program induced significant physiological and psychological relaxation. For instance, walking in a forest park significantly reduced the subjects’ pulse rate and the scores for depression, fatigue, and confusion in the POMS (profile of mood states) test. The combination of these mental and physical benefits can lead to a profound sense of well-being, fostering a deeper connection to nature and a more balanced lifestyle with nature immersion activities, especially when many of us spend the majority of our time in offices or man-made built environments.
Forest Bathing Boosts Mood
A study has shown that forest bathing can assist in boosting mood in participants. Sensory immersion in a natural environment takes the focus away from negative emotions and helps the mind and body to focus on the present. Compared with meditation, forest bathing is an active mindfulness activity, where you allow your senses to process the natural surroundings around you.
Forest bathing encourages us to take a slow walk through the forest while paying attention to the details around us, like the gentle rustling of leaves, the scent of trees, or the sound of birds. The practice encourages mindfulness, grounding people in the present moment and reducing mental fatigue.
The combination of fresh air, serene surroundings, and sensory engagement has made forest bathing a popular wellness practice worldwide. So, do give forest bathing a try! Keep a lookout for hiking trails or if you live in an urban jungle, even your neighbourhood parks can do wonders.
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