By: Ronan Lynch
Emerging from Japan in the 1980s, Shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing”, is a physical and mental exercise designed to help individuals reconnect with green spaces and the natural world.
The term originates from the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries under the direction of Tomohide Akiyama, who served as director at the time. Forest bathing was created to take action against Japan’s rapid industrialization and urbanization, which was leading to the loss of the natural world. The therapeutic practice encourages people to immerse themselves in green spaces and experience its beneficial wealth.
Western Washington University provides a plethora of green spaces for students to experience the effects of forest bathing. The Sehome Arboretum is an excellent option for people to immerse themselves and reconnect with nature. Walking through a forest doesn’t have to be the only option to experience shinrin-yoku, as any park, garden, or other green space can provide the positive benefits of the practice. It doesn’t have to be a physical activity either, as simply lying down surrounded by nature of a form of forest bathing.
Shinrin-yoku is practiced best by leaving everything behind and fully immersing in nature without worrying about anything else; an exercise in mindfulness meant to improve a person’s physical and mental well-being. Scientific studies have discovered that shinrin-yoku can reduce stress, lower cortisol levels and blood pressure, and improve mood. Research also suggests that it can boost immune function and improve quality of sleep.
Linked below are articles to read to learn more about the practice of forest bathing:
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/forest-bathing-nature-walk-health
https://www.npr.org/2023/08/22/1195337204/a-guide-to-forest-bathing
https://www.japan.travel/en/guide/forest-bathing
https://advance.muschealth.org/library/2024/july/forest-bathing
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-forest-therapy-enhance-health-and-well-being-2020052919948
