Woods by Niela Lis
The Ethereal Embrace of Shinrin-Yoku
In this modern world, where ceaseless haste pervades our every breath, an age-old tradition beckons us to return to our roots. Shinrin-Yoku, the Japanese practice of forest bathing, offers us solace in nature's tender embrace.
SHINRIN-YOKU
森林浴
Translated as "forest bathing" (or literally "being in the atmosphere of the forest") has deep roots in Japan's Buddhist and Shinto traditions, but the term was only coined in 1982 by Japan's Ministry of Forestry. At the time, high-stress office culture and claustrophobic cities were starting to take their toll on citizens' health, and the Ministry saw a chance to simultaneously help urbanites de-stress as well as communicate the importance of forests in society by formalizing the concept of forest therapy. Thus, shinrin-yoku was born. It is now a common practice around the world.
How does one practice Shinrin-yuku? The idea is simple, but it requires devotion. It involves spending time in nature, preferably a minimum of 2 hours at a time, and really trying to focus on the present moment and taking in the atmosphere of the forest with all 5 of our senses. Observing the serendipitous beauty around brings quiet relief, the contemplation of the outside brings focus to the inside, and slowly wandering in nature's soft embrace brings a moment of peace and respite and quiets the rushing of thoughts. Besides having a deeply emotional and healing effect for the mind, it has a profound impact on all systems of the human body including immunity, and the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Its therapeutic effects have been widely researched, resulting in a canon of publications, principally within the medical realm.
Inhale. With every footstep amidst the soft rustle of leaves, a wave of fragrances dances joyously upon the breeze. The aromatic embrace of the forest has the inherent ability to boost the human immune system. The phytoncides - the aromatic essential oils released by trees - have shown to significantly increase the number and activity of natural killer cells, which are vital to the innate immune system to eliminate infected cells and tumors. It is said that one longer walk within the forest can inspire this effect and can last for about 4 weeks.
Exhale. Amidst the verdant woodland canopy, stress melts away like morning dew gracefully embraced by the rising sun. Scientific research conducted by the Japanese Forestry Agency has demonstrated that engaging in Shinrin-Yoku can reduce excessive levels of cortisol and adrenaline - hormones that rise in response to stress. Mindful presence within nature and awareness of the sensory impressions leads to increased relaxation and improved mental well-being.
As we wander deeper into the emerald sanctuary, a sincere connection blossoms within us – the reciprocity between humanity and the woodland realms that have nurtured us for centuries. Shinrin-Yoku acknowledges the profound beauty of biodiversity, reminding us of our integral place within the intricate web of life.
The practice can be performed anywhere - from gardens and urban parks to forests. The sensory awareness is what is healing and central to the concept.
Allow the gentle caress of nature to gently soothe and embrace you. Heal your heart as you immerse yourself in the art of Shinrin-Yoku. For when we learn to listen to the wisdom of the trees and surrender ourselves to the embrace of the forest, tranquility permeates our very core and we become more harmonious and in tune. It’s a connection to nature, emotions, body and spirit, as well as the human experience.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5580555/
https://environhealthprevmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12199-019-0822-8
