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Outdoors for wellbeing #3 – Forest Bathing

What is forest bathing?

I’ve got to be honest, when I first heard the term “Forest Bathing” I didn’t really know what it referred to, but I was expecting it to involve water in some way. Turned out I was quite wrong.

“Forest Bathing” originates from Japan and is a relaxation technique practiced around trees. It involves going amongst trees, breathing deeply and observing the nature around you in silence. This helps you to quieten your mind and relax your body.

Last year a research paper published in the UK has shown that people who took part in forest bathing reported feeling happier, calmer, closer to nature and more compassionate. Studies done in Asia have shown plenty of benefits of immersing yourself in the forest atmosphere – not only lifting your mood, but helping with concentration and memory, reducing blood pressure, supporting the immune system, assisting with weight loss and many more.

How to try forest bathing

If you’re now feeling inspired to give it a go, here are some tips for you to try. They come from the “Forests for Wellbeing” booklet :

  • Turn off your phone or at least it put it on silent – this will minimise potential distractions and allow you to relax more fully.
  • Count as you breathe deep into your belly and then try to exhale for twice as long.
  • Use multiple senses – look, listen, smell and touch. Try to register each sensation.
  • If possible, sit or lie down for a little bit – a change of perspective can help you notice things you would otherwise miss.
  • Walk slowly, trying to take everything in.
  • Stay for as long as you are comfortable with. 2 hours seems to be the optimal time, but you can gradually build up to it. And even a little bit of time can make a difference to how you’re feeling.

Photo of a forest with purple flowers

Share your ideas

Please let us know if you have tried Forest Bathing and what you thought of it!

Check out the other blogs in our #Outdoorsforwellbeing series ????

With thanks to:  The Forest Bathing Institute for their research paper on impacts of forest bathing on people’s feelings of wellbeing, and Forestry England for their Forests for Wellbeing booklet.