Forest Bathing: Healing from Nature

Created By RISC | 3 years ago

Last modified date : 2 years ago

Let's recharge!! During the holiday season, we look for places to relax… We turn to natural locations like mountains, waterfalls, and the sea. ​

We can also reinvigorate by "bathing” in the forest. ​

“Forest bathing” is putting ourselves in natural surroundings and just staying still or walking slowly, taking it all in with our 5 senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. ​

Many studies confirm the health benefits. Measurements of blood pressure, heart rate, heart rate variability, facial expression, and psychological questionnaires show the drop in stress and rise in mental and physical well-being. We also boost our numbers of white blood cells and our immune systems. ​

Urbanization reduces our exposure to nature. But forest bathing lets us escape for a while to restore our physical and mental health. ​

Story by: Thanawat Jinjaruk, Senior Researcher, Environment Division, RISC