What is forest bathing…My story
Over the past years of residing in the countryside of Messinia, I have been increasingly drawn towards nature. Initially, it was the sheer beauty of nature that caught my attention. However, as I began to observe and appreciate its countless wonders, a profound emotional bond between myself and nature began to form, leading me to ponder its significance.
I came to understand that paying attention to nature is the first step towards cultivating a deep devotion to it. This realisation sparked my emotional engagement and influenced my psychological connection with nature, ultimately leading me towards developing an ecological consciousness.
I noticed that nature provides me with solace and serves as a refuge, enabling me to detach myself from our technology-driven culture. From this perspective, I began to question the dominance of our technology-based society in my own mind.
Nature, with its unspoiled beauty and innocent characteristics, serves as a poignant reminder of how far removed we have become from the authentic life that humans should lead. The realm of flora and fauna is a sacred and healing space, where each living being holds its rightful place, and humans can coexist in harmony with them.
Consequently, I am on a personal journey to make nature the very essence of my being. It has become my core, shaping my thoughts, actions, and worldview.
On this journey I came across a practice known as Forest bathing or Shinrin-yoku which I will introduce to you briefly now.
Forest bathing is a scientifically and research based wellness practice which puts nature at its core. It originated through the Japanese National Health Program in the 1980s and has since been developed and enhanced globally with the intention of promoting physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It involves spending time in nature and immersing oneself in the atmosphere of a forest or other natural green or blue environment. The connection with nature happens through sequences of practices which foster sensory awakening. There are countless health benefits to this practice such as the ones mentioned below:
- Reducing stress levels: Forest Bathing has been shown to reduce stress levels and the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s fight-or-flight response.
- Boosting the immune system: Exposure to phytoncides, organic compounds released by trees, has been shown to increase the activity of natural killer cells, which are responsible for fighting viruses and cancer cells.
- Improving mood: Spending time in nature has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Lowering blood pressure: Forest Bathing has been associated with reduced blood pressure and a lower risk of hypertension.
- Enhancing cognitive function: Spending time in nature has been shown to enhance cognitive function, including improved memory, attention, and creativity.
Needless to say that this practice touches deeply on spiritual, social, and even planetary aspects of health. Each of these aspects merits a long and singular mention.
(The photos were taken during an “Introduction to Skinner Technique” led by Vasiliki Tsagari)