We ended the session by collecting our 'special item' and whispering a word of gratitude to
it, then returning it to the forest as a token of thanks.As people left the woods and returned to the hustle and bustle of everyday life they did so with a sense of tranquility and calm in their being.
If you have been on a Forest Bathing Guided Walk you know to well the benefits, maybe not the science behind the benefits but you have felt it in your mind, your heart and your soul.
However, if you're a 'Forest Bathing Sceptic' who requires some 'hard science' to convince you of the benefits, then let me help.
Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is a practice in which individuals immerse themselves in the natural environment of a forest. This practice originated in Japan and through many years of vigorous scientific trials and studies has been shown to have numerous health benefits.
Some of the potential benefits reported by scientific studies include:
Reduced stress and anxiety: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and to improve overall feelings of well-being.
Improved mood: Exposure to nature has been linked to improved mood and increased feelings of happiness.
Improved immune function: Some studies have suggested that forest bathing may have positive effects on the immune system, potentially increasing the production of natural killer cells that help to fight off infections and disease
Increased vitality: Spending time in nature has been shown to increase feelings of vitality and energy.
Improved cardiovascular health: Some research has suggested that forest bathing may have positive effects on blood pressure and heart rate.
Overall, the evidence suggests that forest bathing is a valuable practice that can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits.
Forest Bathing involves spending time in the forest, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world and opening to the possibility of nature.
When you join a Forest Bathing Guided Walk you are invited to slow down and connect with nature, allowing the mind and body to relax and rejuvenate.