What is shinrin-yoku?

Shinrin-yoku means “forest bathing.” No swimsuit. No water. Just you and the forest. 

​Developed in Japan, shinrin-yoku is the practice of slowing down and immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the forest through your senses.

​Notice the veins of a leaf. Trace the rings of a fallen tree. Feel the rough edge of bark beneath your fingertips. Breathe in the scent of damp earth. Watch raindrops gather, tremble and fall.

This isn’t a hike, a fitness challenge or a lesson in identifying trees. It’s an invitation to stop rushing, pay attention and experience nature at a different pace.

By bringing your awareness to what you can see, hear, smell and feel, the noise of everyday life begins to quieten. Your breathing slows. Your shoulders drop. You create space to reconnect—with the forest and with yourself.​

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Research suggests that time spent this way can help reduce stress, support wellbeing and encourage a sense of calm, connection and restoration.

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Forest Bathing+ is the evidence-informed method developed by The Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI), building on the principles of traditional forest bathing with a structured, guided approach to nature connection, designed to harness the maximum therapeutic benefits. Sessions combine gentle movement, mindfulness, sensory exercises, quiet reflection and time spent connecting with the woodland environment. Guided by a trained Forest Bathing+ practitioner, the experience is designed to support relaxation, reduce stress and create space to slow down, reconnect and restore.

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Watch the video to learn more about the forest immersion experience.