What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing refers to spending intentional, unhurried time in the forest. The essence of this nature-based practice is the sensory immersion in the atmosphere of the forest, inviting us to benefit from the health-promoting qualities of this natural environment.

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 Shinrin Yoku, roughly translated as "bathing in the forest air"", originated in Japan, where it was developed in the early 1980s to promote physical and mental health.

Unlike an ordinary walk in the forest, forest bathing is not about covering a particular distance or reaching a destination. Instead, the practice follows a structured rhythm of slow movement, guided sensory, mindfulness and awareness exercises as well as periods of rest, inviting you to focus on your connection with nature and your personal well-being.

The focus is on directly experiencing the natural surroundings: the rustling of leaves, the scent of moss and earth, the play of light between the trees or the texture of tree bark. As the senses open up, perception becomes more refined and the forest is not simply observed but experienced directly.

This way of slowing down and engaging profoundly with nature can help reduce stress and tension and promote calm, well-being and concentration. At the same time, it creates a deeper connection with nature: the forest is experienced not merely as a backdrop, but as a space of resonance that we enter into relationship with through our senses.

Forest bathing thus combines the health-promoting qualities of the forest with a conscious, sensory encounter with nature. It opens up a space in which body and mind can come to rest, while our capacity to perceive and connect with the natural world - and with ourselves - can expand.

My forest bathing offers are purely preventative and serve as general health care. They are not a substitute for treatment by a doctor, an alternative practitioner or a therapist.

Forest Bathing in practice

My forest bathing sessions follow a structured sequence of guided movement, mindfulness, sensory and awareness exercises.

The sequence is designed to gradually slow down the pace of everyday life and awaken the senses - shifting away from our usual thinking and functioning mode towards a direct, embodied and sensory experience of the natural environment.

In this way, the forest is not simply perceived visually, but experienced through the senses. This allows harnessing nature's health-promoting benefits to the fullest.

A session lasts around three hours. The time is intentionally calculated generously. Alongside periods of individual exploration and quiet, there are regular opportunities to share experiences and impressions with the group and connect with one another.

This creates a balanced interplay of personal time out, shared moments, and space to engage with the experience at your own pace.