What is the difference between shinrin-yoku and forest bathing?

In Japan, we practice something called forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku. Shinrin in Japanese means “forest,” and yoku means “bath.” So shinrin-yoku means bathing in the forest atmosphere, or taking in the forest through our senses. By opening our senses, it bridges the gap between us and the natural world.

What is the best way to describe forest bathing?

Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is simply spending time outdoors under the canopy of trees. In Japanese, “shinrin” means forest and “yoku” means bath, or immersing oneself in the forest and soaking in the atmosphere through the senses, according to Dr.

Why does the Japanese culture value forest bathing?

The term emerged in Japan in the 1980s as a physiological and psychological exercise called shinrin-yoku (“forest bathing” or “taking in the forest atmosphere”). The purpose was twofold: to offer an eco-antidote to tech-boom burnout and to inspire residents to reconnect with and protect the country’s forests.

What are the benefits of shinrin-yoku?

The Japanese practice of shinrin yoku, or Forest Bathing, is good for both physical and mental wellbeing. It is proven to reduce stress hormone production, improve feelings of happiness and free up creativity, as well as lower heart rate and blood pressure, boost the immune system and accelerate recovery from illness.

What does Shinrin yoku mean in nature therapy?

Forest bathing, or forest therapy, is a nature therapy based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku. Shinrin-Yoku translates as “forest bathing.” It is an approach where you take the time to reconnect with nature, with your body, your senses, feelings and emotions.

What’s the best way to practice Shinrin yoku?

You don’t have a forest or woodland nearby, you can also practice Shinrin-Yoku in the park. Just follow this short guide… Step 1 – leave behind your phone, camera or any other distractions, so that you can be fully present in the experience. Step 2 – Leave behind your goals and expectations.

Why do people bathe in the forest in Japan?

‘Forest-bathing’ is now a standard practice in Japan to relieve stress and as a natural solution to prevent disease. We instantly feel a sense of comfort when we are in nature and this is an instinctive and intuitive response.

What happens after 15 minutes of forest bathing?

Every study conducted so far has demonstrated reductions in stress, anger, anxiety, depression and sleeplessness amongst the participants. In fact after just 15 minutes of forest bathing blood pressure drops, stress levels are reduced and concentration and mental clarity improve.

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