“Forest Bathing”: Stress-Reducer, Immune-Booster, and Artistic Inspiration

ARPAN BHATTACHARYYA

2016-07-30

BIG THINK

Tags: Urban Planning, Nature Therapy, Stress Management, Immune System, Creativity Enhancement, Focus Improvement, Public Health

The term “forest bathing” is the translation of a Japanese term, Shinrin-yoku (森林浴), which refers to spending time in forests to reduce stress. Indeed, an organization of the same name refers to the practice of mindfully walking among trees as “forest therapy.” They offer this simple, healing prescription: “Go to a Forest. Walk slowly. Breathe. Open all your senses.”

The article "Forest Bathing: Stress-Reducer, Immune-Booster, and Artistic Inspiration" from Big Think explores the Japanese concept of "Shinrin-yoku" or forest bathing, which involves mindfully spending time in forests to reduce stress and improve health. Research shows that exposure to forests can lower cortisol levels, pulse rate, blood pressure and improve immune function due to compounds called phytoncides released by trees. Forest bathing also enhances creativity and focus, with studies demonstrating improved problem-solving abilities and attention among those who spend time in nature. For urban dwellers, alternative practices like visiting parks, walking under trees, and using aromatherapy can provide similar benefits.

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Keywords: Forest Bathing, Shinrin-yoku, Stress Reduction, Immune Function, Phytoncides, Creativity, Focus, Urban Dwellers, Alternative Practices