Forest Bathing shinrin-yoku | Tips & Benefits |

Forest bathing or ‘shinrin-yoku’ was first developed in Japan in the 1980s, following scientific studies conducted by the government. The results showed that two hours of mindful exploration in a forest increased immune system activation, increased healing speed, improved mental health (decreased depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms and increased social engagement), improved attention and focus, improved sensory processing, and a healthier lifestyle. There is research supporting the interactions with nature for people with physical disabilities, mental health challenges, children with ADD/ADHD and autism spectrum disorder. This should encourage all people to find opportunities for forest bathing. They also found that trees releases chemicals called phytoncides, which have an anti-microbial effect on human bodies, boosting the immune system. As a result of this research, the Japanese government introduced ‘shinrin-yoku’ as a national health program. how to forest bath Link: h