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| © Naoko Otani |
Shinrin-yoku (森林浴): A visit to a forest for relaxation and healing
I was lucky to have grown up close to nature for the
Japanese, who live in a crowded city. My parents frequently took me to the mountains, rivers and
lakes. I loved the sound of rivers
and sweet smell of earthy air in the forest and mountains. I feel at home when I’m in the woods because
that’s where I can totally relax, get energized, and, above all, feel being
part of the universe.
I often heard of the term, shinrin-yoku, in Japan, so I was surprised to come across this
Japanese word in English articles recently. It’s no surprising that being in nature makes us feel better
and relaxed. However, the recent studies show scientific evidence that being exposed to the forest air has positive physiological effects. In Japan, as of now, there are 64 accredited
areas and trails for shinrin-yoku
therapy.
Major effects noted in the studies are:
- Boosted immune system: increased natural killer (NK) cell activity, the number of NK cells, and levels of anti-cancer proteins
- Reduced stress: lowered cortisol (stress hormone) and pulse rate
- Lowered blood pressure
- Greater parasympathetic nerve activity
The effects in the studies are often associated with phytoncides, aromatic
volatile organic compounds released from trees and plants. However, forest environments affect us
through all of our senses: sight of scenery, smell of wood and flowers, sound
of running streams, chirping birds, or the rustle of leaves, feel
of grass and trees, and for some people, taste of edible plants.
Let’s head out for the forests and relax!
No time right now?
Watching a 5-minute Forest Therapy Break made by Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs
might help you relax.