What is Forest Therapy/Bathing and Why Try It?

 
 

You may have started hearing the term “Forest Therapy” or “Forest Bathing” more often recently as there are publications with the scientifically proven benefits being shared. These terms are often used interchangeably. In fact, Kaiser Permanente even included a post about Forest Bathing in their recent newsletter. And some great news is that one of our very own Wellness Within instructors is an ANFT certified guide of Forest Therapy and will leading a session for our clients on June 17th in Auburn.

So what is it exactly? Per the Association of Nature & Forest Therapy, “Forest Therapy is a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to forest bathing.” This practice can be described as a mindful forest immersion in which you focus on experiencing nature through your five senses (i.e., vision, smell, taste, hearing, and touch). And as Kaiser’s newsletter pointed out, it’s also very low impact, which means it’s great for those who may be differently abled or are uninterested in going for a long outdoor hike.

Forest therapy is one type of nature therapy which consists of practices designed to improve immune function, prevent disease, and produce a relaxed state through nature exposure. Ultimately all nature therapies can be done in various settings such as beach, park, river, and forest environments.

 

The Health Benefits

  • Reduces stress hormones (e.g., adrenaline, cortisol)

  • Boosts immune function (e.g., natural killer cells)

  • Improved metabolic markers (e.g., triglyceride levels)

  • Lowers blood pressure and heart rate

  • Increased antioxidant activity

  • Increased feelings of well-being and happiness

Beyond the above proven benefits, Forest Therapy may also improve sleep-wake cycles, influence or enhance spirituality, manage psychiatric symptoms, and significantly improve depression levels.

How to Practice

One opportune way is to come experience a guided Forest Therapy session with ANFT certified guide, Annie Mascorro, RN, MFA on June 17th in Auburn, CA. CLICK HERE to navigate to our Program Calendar to learn more and register.

You can also experience the benefits by taking a trip to your nearby park or any natural setting. Once there, practice mindful awareness and being fully in the moment. Tune into your breath, your senses, and observe your surroundings. Notice if there are any birds chirping, is there a scent in the air, or are the trees swaying in the wind? You can leisurely walk to experience your surroundings even more.

Safety: Remember to always pay attention to your surroundings and wear appropriate gear.

In conclusion, Forest Therapy is considered a preventive healthcare practice that can improve your mental health and quality of life. So, whether it is 20 minutes a day at the park, or even an hour-long outdoor walk on a nearby trail, it’s important to incorporate this practice as an activity that you enjoy and look forward to regularly. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself in deep feelings of awe for all that nature provides.

References:

1.       Zaremba, CNP May 3rd, Karolina, and Name *. “Forest Bathing and Mental Health: It's in Our Nature.” Fullscript, 28 Apr. 2022, https://fullscript.com/blog/forest-bathing?utm_source=email.

2.       “Forest Bathing: What It Is and Why You Should Try It.” Thrive, https://thrive.kaiserpermanente.org/thrive-together/live-well/forest-bathing-try?wt.tsrc=email_pih&cat=l.

3.       “Forest Bathing Is an Evidence-Based Wellness Practice.” Forest Bathing Is an Evidence-Based Wellness Practice, https://www.natureandforesttherapy.earth/about/the-science.

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