Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the forest

What is forest bathing?

No, you don't need swimming goggles; a dose of curiosity and openness is sufficient to experience the calming and restorative atmosphere of the forest. Imagine the forest in all its diversity, depending on the season. Sunlight falling through the treetops, the array of colours of the leaves in autumn, the variety of mosses and plants, earthy scents, birdsongs, the rustling of branches in the wind, the buzzing of insects, the play of light and shadow. It is a world of its own, into which we can immerse ourselves with all our senses. All of this is forest bathing.

While the basic idea of forest bathing, i.e. the importance of nature and forests for people, goes far back into human history, the term "forest bathing" or Shinrin Yoku originated in Japan, where it was developed in the 1980s. The essence of forest bathing is the sensory immersion in the ambiance of the forest. Strolling through the forest without a goal or special effort, mindfully perceiving the forest with all your senses, accompanied by breathing exercises and meditation which invite you to focus on our connection with nature and your personal well-being.

However, Yoku does not just mean 'bathing', it also means 'healing'. And thus, forest bathing is also an important element of health care, as it can contribute to relaxation, stress reduction, an improved immune function, as well as to cardiovascular and respiratory health.

What we intuitively feel, namely that the forest is good for us, has also been proven scientifically. Click on the images below to learn more about the health benefits of forest bathing.

Please note that forest bathing is purely preventative and serves as general health care. My courses are not a substitute for treatment by a doctor, an alternative practitioner or a therapist.