Earth Day, April 22, is a perfect time to learn more about forest bathing. Known as shinrin-yoku in Japan, the term translates to "taking in the forest atmosphere." National Geographic says the concept emerged in the 1980s "to offer an eco-antidote to tech-boom burnout and to inspire residents to reconnect with and protect the country’s forests."
It is easy to understand how a lovely walk in the woods can lift your spirits. Forest bathing takes things one step further by embracing a slow, mindful approach to your time in nature. Take the time to recognize how all your senses respond to the moment. For example, you may notice the sunlight on the leaves, the feeling of a light drizzle, and the sounds of nearby birds.
The benefits of forest bathing
Studies show the practice can improve mental and physical health. For example:
- Research at The Stanford Center on Longevity suggests forest bathing may have immune system and even cancer-fighting benefits.
- A 2007 study found that it lowers stress and cortisol.
- A 2017 systematic review revealed a drop in blood pressure after forest bathing.
Plus, it's simple! You can do it with a single tree or a small patch of grass. Check out a few basic forest bathing exercises from The Well you can try deep in the woods or in the middle of a city.
Explore our own backyard
Portland-area parks provide calm away from noisy urban life. A few options include:
- Nestled in the woods of Forest Park, Portland Japanese Garden offers quiet contemplation.
- Hoyt Arboretum hosts guided events.
- PDX Forest Bathing provides instruction for the curious.
Many members of LifeWorks NW staff embrace the healing nature of, well, nature. Telia Anderson, Certified Recovery Mentor Supervisor at LifeWorks NW, finds sanctuary among the trees.
“Forest Park is very grounding. It connects me back,” she says. “One thing the earth teaches us is the seasons and being in the now.”
LEARN MORE
- Effects of forest environment on health promotion and disease prevention, National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information
- Forest Bathing Institute
- Dip your toes into forest bathing, a kid-friendly approach, Johns Hopkins University
- Feeling grumpy and stressed? Try taking a ‘forest bath’, NPR Life Kit (interview and transcript)
