September 29, 2019

How to do Forest Bathing - inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku!





In this video I will show you how to do Forest Bathing. Yes you heard that right. Forest Bathing -   It really is a thing.
And can I tell you a little secret: I have been forest bathing since I was a child,  unbeknownst to me though - I grew up in the countryside surrounded by trees and meadows, nature was basically  my playground. 


What is Forest Bathing? 
I came across the term Forest Bathing  while I was studying Clinical Aromatherapy and I was really surprised that this is  was a form of therapy, for me it was always just spending some time in nature. 
Forest Therapy is healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments and it was   inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which means "forest bathing." or taking in the forest. 
And we all know how good being in nature can make us feel. The sounds of the forest, the scent of the trees, the sunlight playing through the leaves, the fresh, clean air — these things give us a sense of comfort. They ease our stress and worry, help us to relax and to think more clearly. Being in nature can restore our mood, give us back our energy and vitality, refresh and rejuvenate us.


Who invented forest bathing?
The term was coined in 1982 by the then Director General of the Agency of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan, Tomohide Akiyama, who stated that the people of Japan were in need of healing through nature. The idea was also part of a campaign to protect the forests.
After years of careful study, Researchers from Japan have  found that spending time in a forest can reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and anger,  strengthen the immune system, improve cardiovascular and metabolic health and boost overall well-being.



How does forest bathing work?
The key to unlocking the power of the forest is in the five senses. 
Let nature enter through your ears, eyes, nose, mouth, hands and feet. 
The Forest bathing takes place at a slow, almost meditative pace. 
Take your time and look around as you stroll along on a forest path without knowing where the path is going to take you.
Listen to the birds singing and the breeze rustling in the leaves of the trees.  

Observe the animals that might come your way. Observe the bees being busy collecting nectar from the flowers.  

Touch the trees, feel the leaves and the soil. 

Look at the different greens of the trees and the sunlight filtering through the branches.   

Take slow deep breaths and smell the fragrance of the forest and breathe in the natural aromatherapy of phytoncides. 

Marina

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