Forest Bathing for Stress Reduction

 

Man with dog on path in forest

There is an age-old practice in Japan called shinrin-yoku which means forest bathing.  It is meant to be a purposeful walk, or a mobile meditation of sorts.

Forest bathing means “taking in the forest atmosphere” and was developed specifically to reduce stress.

The key tactics to doing it correctly are to breathe in deeply, and sit occasionally, and focus on using all your senses.

Unlike hiking, where the goal is to get from Point A to B, the destination in forest bathing is getting to a place of mental space and effortless relaxation.

In Japan, shinrin-yoku trails are tested and labeled for their health benefits.  In the U.S., some hotels and resorts are offering forest bathing……. like Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Mohonk Mountain House in NY, The Mayflower Grace in Washington, CT, and L’Auberge de Sedona in Arizona’s red rock region.

Your brain will be grateful!