Learn Your Flow

Many of us spend a large proportion of our lives sitting at desks or being inside. As the expectations of modern-day life become more and more stressful it is essential to find a balance between work and play.

In Japan they recognized this imbalance and created what is called Forest Bathing. Forest bathing is also known as Shinrin-Yoku and is essentially spending time out in a forest to improve not just mental wellbeing but also physical health. This practice was developed in the 1980’s and is so successful that the government introduced forest bathing as a national health program.

In our previous post we looked at different ways to improve our connection to nature but if you want to go a little deeper why not give forest bathing a go?

So how do we practice?

At first forest bathing may seem very simple. This is because it is essentially spending time in the forest. However, when you dig deeper it is more than a walk used for exercise. You must immerse yourself by using the 5 senses, touch, sound, taste, smell and sight. By doing this you are encouraging relaxation through being inquisitive and being in the present moment. Beathing deeply in the fresh air can also help bring a relaxed state.

The benefits…

As forest bathing is quite a young practice there has not been as long to study the benefits forest bathing has on the body or our mental health. But the research that has been conducted shows that forest bathing is not a waste of time.

Studies have shown that trees release chemicals called phytoncides which can help to boost the immune system. This is due to the chemicals having an antimicrobial effect on human bodies. Studies have also shown that spending 2 hours in the forest twice a day can help to reduce a stress hormone called cortisol. Forest bathing has also been known to significantly reduce levels of depression. The increased level of oxygen due to photosynthesis can also help to improve brain function.

Now that we know what forest bathing is and the benefits let’s look at some top tips to improve your forest bathing practice.

Top Tips…

• Making time – Picking a quieter time of day can help increase the benefits of forest bathing. If you have a busy schedule, you could try and practice early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid big crowds. It is also recommended that you practice forest bathing for 2 hours. This may seem a long time especially if you are busy, however, something is better than nothing. So even if you manage 10 minutes then that is still a good achievement.

• Take it slow- Forest bathing is not about walking as quickly as you can to get your heart rate up. It is more about slowly wondering and taking in your surroundings. There is nothing wrong with pausing regularly or sitting on a log and looking out for wildlife.

• Experience the 5 senses- Why not dig a little deeper by touching a tree, smelling the earth, tasting homemade herbal teas, seeing the mushrooms, or listening to the birds. The forest is a great place to get lost in your surroundings, forgetting about all the stress and busyness of life. So, make use of the senses to get the most out of the practice.

• Breath Deep – Letting go of all the thoughts and emotions that come with a busy life can be difficult so why not start your forest bathing with some deep breathing. This will help bring your focus to the present moment and help you to connect to your senses.

• Digital Detox – All of us our guilty of mindlessly scrolling on social media or checking our emails. But why not make space for self-care and make time to relax by switching off your electrical devices. This is so that you can truly be present in the forest.  

Feeling inspired?

Dig out your diary or start by looking up your local forest. You may find that if you are someone that prefers to be with other people you may be able to find a group near you that can guide for the first time. These are the first steps in making time for yourself with the help of nature.

If you are enjoying the connection to nature, then stay tuned as next month we will be exploring how to work alongside nature’s seasons and how they can support you in reaching your life’s goals.