It can sometimes feel like I’m getting busier with every passing year. Not that I’m complaining — I love my job — but it can be hard to find time for myself, so I’m always looking for ways to make sure that when I do have time off, I rest and recuperate. That’s why I’m always interested in learning about the latest wellness trends that I could incorporate into my self-care routine. The latest trend gaining popularity in the US and UK is “forest bathing.”
What is forest bathing?
While forest bathing sounds like it means swimming, or at least getting into some kind of water in a forest, the activity actually originated in Japan about 30 years ago. The technique of forest bathing, or nature bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is actually as simple as going into nature and taking it all in. Smell the smells, touch your surroundings, and immerse yourself in nature. It’s similar to a typical forest walk, but with the addition of meditation for a more “present” experience.
Why would you do that?
Forest bathing has grown in popularity after studies linked it to measurable health benefits. Forest bathing has been shown to help lower stress-related cortisol levels, slow pulse rate, and lower blood pressure. Low levels of depressionIf that doesn’t convince you yet, hiking to your chosen location will likely be good exercise, which is always a good thing, right?
how?
Join a local forest bathing club in the US or start your own. Forest Bathing ClubFind out more about forest bathing in the UK here. Home page Or check out the National Trust’s list of the 10 best places for forest bathing in the UK. National Trust .
Or maybe use your next day off to go to a nearby wood or forest for a bit of a break. It seems like a health trend too, like Teddy Rowe, so I’ll take him and see if he comes back feeling more calm…
Read next: Wellness Trends 2020 | Simple Meditation
© Wendy Rowe. All rights reserved.
Source: Wendy Rowe – wendyrowe.com
