FOREST BATHING

A new phenomenon, a therapeutic relaxation, spending time within a forest or natural environment.

RELAXATION IS KEY TO A HEALTHY MIND…

FRESH AIR, TRANQUILITY AND A HEALTHY MIND…WHAT’S NOT TO LOVE?

Life can become hectic and it be tough. An excellent method of escaping reality, is by surrounding yourself within nature and experiencing the tranquility of a forest. According to the Mental Health Foundation, it supports good mental and prevents distress. What makes it even better, is the fact it doesn’t cost money to experience the natural world (Mental Health Foundation, 2021).

You may be wondering; ‘what is forest bathing?’. In essence, this phenomenon originates from Japan, which is also known as ‘Shinrin-yoku’ and scientific studies support the benefits it provides for the mind and body. Shinrin translates to ‘forest’ and yoku, ‘bath’. So bathing in a forest or taking it through our senses. It ‘bridges the gap’ we have with nature.

There’s numerous reported health benefits, ranging from a reduction of blood pressure, stress hormones, anxiety and depression, to name a few (Li, 2022).

Next time you’re at a loose end, consider forest bathing. Your mind and body will appreciate it.

Below is a fashion photoshoot inspired by this Japanese Phenomenon, entitled ‘Forest Bathing’.

Sources: Mental Health Foundation (2021) How connecting nature benefits our health. Mental Health Foundation [online]. Available from: mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/research/nature-how-connecting-nature-benefits-our-mental-health [Accessed 23/05/2024].

Qing Li. (2022) Li Q. Effects of forest environment (Shinrin-yoku/Forest bathing) on health promotion and disease prevention -the Establishment of "Forest Medicine". Environ Health Prev Med [online]. 27 ([n.k.]), [n.k.]. Available from: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9665958/ [Accessed 23/05/2024].