Known as "Shinrin-yoku" or forest bathing, the term literally means to take in the forest atmosphere. It was founded (officially) in Japan in the 1980s and has shown benefits such as restoration, relaxation, and calming of the senses. Now, before some of you roll your eyes think of it logistically and even scientifically if you want. An individual immersed in the forest has no background noise. There is less stress, less human interaction (that may cause more stress), and you're getting more oxygen to your brain than you would if you lived in a crowded city. More oxygen = good. Less stress = good. You see?
Trees give off an organic compound that supports cells that are part of our immune system that fight off cancer. If that alone doesn't perk up your ears I invite you to check out more benefits here. Participating in forest bathing can also help you sleep and give you more energy. Now, this is by no means a cure all and I'm not saying that if you go for a walk in the woods that you will be free from all worries and trouble...but wouldn't it be nice to just clear your head? I find that in times of stress just going out for a walk helps with clarity - regardless of if it's in a forest or not. However, I have lived in the mountains and lived in cities and there is a world of difference.
I invite you to check this out a little if you'd like. In Japan there are retreats and places where you go to partake in the bathing. It's like a vacation for the sake of your mental well being. Nature has an incredible way of healing. Like the great Alan Watts once said,
"You didn't come into this world. You came out of it, like a wave from the ocean. You are not a stranger here."
Your beliefs may lead you elsewhere and that's fine, but at least try to get some fresh air today.
-CS
For further reading I've included some other sites and recommendations. Enjoy!
