Forest bathing is your path to a deeper connection with nature

JANUARY 10, 2023 – January is the perfect time to reconnect with nature and enjoy all the mental, physical, and emotional benefits it has to offer.

Spending time in nature has been shown to have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. One specific practice that has gained popularity in recent years is called "forest bathing," or Shinrin-yoku in Japanese. Shinrin in Japanese means "forest," and yoku means "bath." Shinrin-yoku, therefore, means bathing in the forest atmosphere, or taking in the forest through our senses.

But what exactly is forest bathing, and how does it support mental health?

Forest bathing is best done alone, or with a small group. The goal is to fully immerse yourself in the present moment, and to relax and let go of any stress or distractions. It is not exercise, or hiking, or jogging. It is simply being in nature, connecting with it through our senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch.

“There are many benefits to spending time in nature and engaging in forest bathing,” explains Kristie Virgoe, Director of Stewardship and Conservation Lands, and a certified forest therapy guide. “For one, it has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Studies have found that even just a few hours spent in nature can significantly lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol.”

In addition, nature has been found to improve mood, increase self-esteem, and sense of accomplishment, and reduce anger, aggression, and other negative emotions.

“One of the key benefits of forest bathing is that it allows us to fully unplug and disconnect from the distractions of modern life,” Virgoe continued. “With the constant barrage of emails, texts, and social media notifications, it can be difficult to fully relax and unwind. By immersing ourselves in nature, we can let go of these distractions and fully focus on the present moment.”

In addition to reducing stress and improving mood, spending time in nature has also been linked to improved cognitive function and creativity. Studies have found that being in nature can improve memory and attention, as well as increase problem-solving skills and creativity.

Virgoe noted that the mindful practice of being in nature is that it allows the individual to have a more meaningful connection.

“Another benefit of forest bathing is that it allows us to connect with the natural world in a deeper way,” Virgoe said. “By engaging our senses and paying attention to the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest, we are able to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world in a way that is not possible when we are distracted by technology and the demands of modern life.”

So how can you incorporate forest bathing into your life? The key is to start small and make it a regular part of your routine. Find a conservation area near your home and take a leisurely walk there a few times a week. As you walk, try to engage all your senses, paying attention to the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. Leave your phone behind and try to fully immerse yourself in the present moment.

“Forest bathing is not about trying to accomplish anything or rushing to get somewhere. It is about slowing down and connecting with nature in a meaningful way,” said Virgoe. “By making forest bathing a regular part of your routine, you can reap the numerous benefits of spending time in nature, including reduced stress, improved mood, and increased cognitive function and creativity.”

To learn more about forest bathing opportunities through Kawartha Conservation, visit the Events Calendar at www.kawarthaconservation.com/events, or for information on how your family, business, or staff can benefit through a forest bathing experience, contact Kristie Virgoe by email or phone 705-328-2271 ext. 214.