Forest Bathing

Tuesday 8th January 2019

Forest Bathing the therapeutic power of the forest

The Japanese Roots of the latest wellness therapy

Shinrin Yoku is a Japanese term and means, taking in the atmosphere of the forest or Forest Bathing
Developed in the 1980s and now become a cornerstone of Japanese health and healing after surgery or trauma
Forest Bathing is easy to do you don’t need expensive equipment take some water and suitable footwear can be enjoyed alone or as a group
Walk slowly in a Forest or woodland be open to your senses feel the different surfaces under your feet, listen to the birds and wind in the trees. smell the damp earth. Get in the habit of walking a route regularly and notice the changes of the Seasons
In Japan walkers often include a time to meditate or do some yoga or Tai Chi but you will find you will naturally stop worrying about the everyday problems and enjoy the nature around you.

Health benefits of walking slowly under a canopy of trees include
• Reduces blood pressure
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Improves mood
• Improves sleep
• Increased ability to focus
• Increased feeling of wellbeing
On the Island best forests to visit in the Spring Parkhurst, Borthwood ,Firestone Brighstone and Ventnor Botanical gardens
A popular Japanese saying is the Forest is good for the body and has no side effects

There are several books listed on Amazon about Forest bathing the new one by Qing Li Shinrin-Yoku: The Art and Science of Forest Bathing looks good