Shinrin-Yoku : Forest Bathing
What is Shinrin-Yoku, aka Forest Bathing?
Simply put Shinrin-Yoku, or Forest Bathing, involves immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the forest or woodland whilst engaging each of your senses in a mindful capacity to benefit your wellbeing.
The core principle of Shinrin-Yoku or Forest Bathing is that you are present and in the moment and not distracted by technology, conversations or everyday stresses of daily life.
More than simply a walk in the woods, the practice of Shinrin-Yoku adopts principles of mindfulness and entails slowing down and applying an acute focus on what’s around us through a series of sensory invitations.
Shinrin-Yoku techniques can be learnt and applied by yourself.
However a qualified Forest Bathing or Shinrin-Yoku Practitioner will take time to explain the scientific research and health benefits and guide you through a series of gentle mindful invitations which focus on each of your senses, as you remain present and connect with nature, without thinking about time or direction.
The swell of scientific data globally supporting Shinrin-Yoku or Forest Bathing is very compelling, with reported health benefits including reductions in blood pressure, heart rate, stress and anxiety, alongside effects on immune function.
Research has demonstrated:
💚 Reductions in cortisol levels, a key stress hormone
💚 Improvements in depression, stress and anxiety scores, especially anxiety
💚 Reduced blood pressure and heart rate
💚 Changes in Natural Killer (NK) cell activity and immune function
💚 Increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, associated with rest and recovery
A core principle of Shinrin-Yoku is that we are present and in the moment, not distracted by technology or everyday stressors of daily life.
Learn more about the global swell of research into Shinrin-Yoku and Forest Bathing here.
What happens during the session?
Welcome Talk – Introduction to Shinrin-Yoku aka Forest Bathing. Learn about its origin, background, scientific research and the physiological and psychological health benefits reported with Shinrin-Yoku across the globe.
Invitation to Disconnect – An opportunity to switch off mobile phones and disconnect from technology and the usual distractions of daily life.
Shinrin-Yoku Class – Partake in a series of ‘invitations’ to engage with each of your senses. These ‘invitations’ or mindfulness based activities can be done sat or lying down, standing or moving at a slow considered pace.
There is distinct permission not to talk, allowing you to focus on being present and in the moment, until we gather in sharing circles between each ‘invitation’ or exercise.
What to Bring?
- Sturdy footwear as terrain underfoot can vary as we explore the forest
- Long trousers to avoid nettle stings or scratchy branches
- Something to sit and or lie on may help you relax into the invitations and prevent a soggy bum
- Water and snacks
- Be prepared for the weather, sunscreen / waterproofs
- Curiosity and open mindset