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Benefits of Shinrin Yoku

Shinrin Yoku (forest bathing) is more than a pleasant walk in the woods. It is a slow, mindful immersion in the forest atmosphere, using the senses to help the body and mind settle.

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A growing body of research suggests that spending intentional time among trees may:

  • Reduce stress hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline

  • Lower blood pressure and heart rate

  • Support the nervous system - into our natural “rest and restore” response

  • Reduce anxiety, rumination and low mood

  • Improve positive emotions, mental clarity and concentration

  • Support more restful sleep

  • Strengthen feelings of connection - with ourselves, with others and with nature

  • Support immune function by increasing the activity of natural killer (NK) cells

Image by Gustav Gullstrand

Trees also release natural airborne compounds known as phytoncides. Research led by Dr Qing Li, a world expert in forest medicine who helped popularise the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (shinrin means forest, and yoku means bath = "bathing" your senses in the forest atmosphere), suggests that breathing in these compounds may contribute to some of the immune-supporting effects associated with time in forests.

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Forest Bathing+ builds on this Japanese research through a structured, evidence-informed approach developed by The Forest Bathing Institute. UK research has reported improvements in mood, positive emotions, rumination, nature connection and compassion, alongside signs of improved heart-rate variability in some participants.

 

Every experience is different, and forest bathing is not a replacement for medical care or therapy. It is a gentle, accessible wellbeing practice that creates space to slow down, regulate the nervous system and reconnect with the natural world.

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Let the forest restore you.

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