Insider’s Guide to 2015 Trends: Forest Bathing

The history: The Japanese government coined the term, “forest bathing,” in 1982; its translation, “shinrin-yoku” means “taking in the forest atmosphere,” i.e., it’s a simple concept that revolves around quietly walking and staying mindful of the sounds, scents, colors, and “feel” of the forest setting that surrounds you.

Rooted in medical evidence: What’s the purpose of forest bathing? The medical evidence that backs it up—studies show it offers the following health benefits: significantly lowers blood pressure (-1.4 percent), heart rate (-5.8 percent), cortisol levels (-12.4 percent), and sympathetic nerve activity (-7 percent) compared with city walks, according to our trends report. As well, trees emit phytoncides, airborne, aromatic chemicals/oils said to positively impact people’s immune system markers.

Into the woods: Read on for examples of forest bathing practices already underway around the world.

Image courtesy of Blackberry Farms; photo credit Rau

Blackberry Farm, located in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, features “Deep Healing Woods” activities that include in-forest yoga, meditation, and endurance hikes. Spa treatments use woodland ingredients like flowers and herbs.

Image courtesy of Blackberry Farm

The Lodge at Woodloch‘s Forest Bathing program comprises walks guided by a master herbalist, mindful contemplation, and foraging for edible plantlife.

Image courtesy of The Lodge at Woodloch

Forsthofgut Nature Hotel’s waldSPA (forestSPA) in Austria enriches the senses with amenities like guided forest bathing, barefoot forest walking paths, a garden, lake, and yoga platform overlooking the Leogang Mountains.

Image courtesy of Forsthofgut Nature Hotel

You can’t get much more “into the forest” than this Swedish property (it’s named Treehotel, after all). It features a “tree sauna,” hot tub, and relaxation area—in the woods, of course; the “bird’s nest” guest accommodation; and excursions in the Lapland forest: Following a guided walk deep into the woodlands, you’ll learn to make a fire, sip hot drinks, and stay warm cocooned in reindeer skins.

Image courtesy of Treehotel