Forest bathing | Shinrin-yoku

Forest bathing | Shinrin-yoku (Japanese)

Forest Baths describe mindful woodland walks. The term Forest Baths origins from Japan, where the relaxing effects of taking walks in the forest are researched upon since the beginning of the 1980s. The term forest bath originates from the japanese word Shinrin-yoku, which directly translated means: "to take a bath in the forest". Nowadays, the medical effects of forest baths are even offered as specialisation subject in japanese universities under the name of "forest medicine".

Which effects do forests baths have on our health?

Studies have shown that already short walks in the forest have a positive impact on our health. In the forest

• the amount of killer cells increase, which fight cancer
• the immune system is strengthened
• Cortisol and pulse are lowered

Koreanic and japanese studies indicate that Forest Baths have a preventive effect on our health. Breathing in essentials oils that are produced by trees and being exposed to the specific light conditions in the forest, strengthens the immune system. In Japan, Forest Baths are already a recognized stress management method. Forest Baths reduce

• Anxiety states
• Depressions
• Anger
• Chronical pain
• High blood pressure and
• Heart diseases

Simultaneously, Forest Baths increase vitality and well-being. Meanwhile, there are more than 70 certificated healing woods in Japan. Up to five million people visit the national healing wood Akasawa yearly. In South Korea, Forest Baths are installed next to big cities. Thus, the question still remains for how long a Forest Bath has to last until positive effects are noticeable.

Forest Bathing in German speaking Europe

The healing effects of asian pines, cedars and larcs cannot be found in Germany but also the German fir trees, beech trees and oak trees have healing effects. The first cure wood in Europe is the forest on the island of Usedom (Germany). The unique combination of sea and woodland air can be especially helpful when suffering from

• diseases of the respiratory system
• skin diseases
• locomotive system diseases
• psychsosomatic diseases or
• depressions

Forest Bathing: meditation

Cure woods not only animate visitors to take a walk but also to meditate. A part of this is the meditative practice are movement excercises in light and shadow, climbing routes and sensor paths. If wanted, there are trained coaches who accompany people who are taking forest baths.