Forest Bathing: A Peaceful Break From a Tech-Heavy World

What inspired the development of Shinrin-Yoku, or forest bathing, by the Japanese Ministry for Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries in the 1980s?

It was inspired by the revelation that forests and natural land were being degraded.

It was inspired by the need for an antidote to the stress felt by workers during the tech boom.

It was inspired by new health recommendations to increase time spent recreationally outdoors.

Spending time in forests can benefit our holistic health when…

We are already relatively relaxed.

We are relatively stressed.

At all times, even when we are at our most stressed.

What are three useful cues we can try to remember when embarking on our first forest bathing experience?

Be present. Be open. Be aware.

Be present. Be open. Always bring friends.

Being present. Be open. Always go alone.