Episode 14 - Forest Bathing
Do you notice you feel better after you just get out in nature? Check out the benefits and the basics of forest bathing.
Transcript
Welcome to episode 14 of Shift Your Shit With Sara. Today’s topic, forest bathing, is one that I didn’t really even realize I was taking part in when I enjoyed a long walk along the trails, or in my local conservation areas, but one that I’ve been really interested to find out more about lately.
Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku (excuse my Japanese), also known as forest therapy, was developed in Japan in the 1980s, and it’s been studied more and more in recent years. Throughout these studies, we’re finding that there are so many health benefits to spending time in nature - things like decreased stress hormones, increased immune response, and a more balanced and positive mood.
So, what is forest bathing, and how do you do it?
Well, don’t worry, no need to hop out into the Canadian winters in your birthday suit, we’re not talking about polar dips or the Wim Hoff method today. All you need to do is find a forest - or a canopy of trees, maybe it’s a park, a trail, or a conservation area. Go into the forest until you are completely surrounded by the trees, and just stop and close your eyes. Take note of what’s happening around you - what can you hear, smell, and feel? Do you hear birds or other little creatures? Do you feel the wind or rain?
This might sound a little bit like the mindfulness exercises we talked about in episode 9, just be in the present moment in the forest, and take it all in, breathe it all in.
According to the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs, “Forest bathing catalyzes increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, which prompts rest, conserves energy, and slows down the heart rate, while increasing intestinal and gland activity.” This means your body relaxes and begins to feel safe, coming out of any constant state of fight, flight, or freeze, and begins to work more efficiently and effectively.
And did you know that trees release oils, called phytoncides, that actually have a calming effect on stress symptoms and boost your immune system as well? We could all use a little boosted immune response these days, and at zero cost! Just the time it takes to hike or walk is a small investment for such a great return!
Some studies even show that forest therapy helps with clearer thinking, problem solving abilities, and increased creativity - who can’t use more of that?
Today’s tiny takeaway is to try forest bathing. Locate a forest near you and take a walk. Remember to take your time and stay in the moment. Take a hike or leisurely walk through the forest.
Not too sure about doing it on your own? Grab some friends, or even check out the maps, guide directories, or walks you can register for on the Association of Nature And Forest Therapy Guides and Programs website - there are even virtual walks listed there.
Thank you so much for joining me on today’s episode of Shift Your Shit with Sara, the weekly podcast where I help people shift into the life they love. Everything mentioned in this episode will be in today’s show notes at shiftyourshitwithsara.com/14, that’s the number 14. Again, thank you so much for joining me today, and I’ll see you again next time.
