By: Rosemarie Tamunday Casanova

There’s a saying in Japan that “nature is not a place to visit-it is home.” And if there’s one wellness practice that captures that belief beautifully, it’s Shinrin-yoku, also known as forest bathing.

If you’re imagining people taking a literal bath in the forest, don’t worry-that’s not what it is. Forest bathing simply means immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the forest, breathing deeply, moving slowly, and allowing nature to soothe your senses.

It’s not exercise.
It’s not hiking.
It’s not adventure travel.

It’s a slow, relaxed walk that helps you reconnect with nature-and reconnect with yourself.

In Japan, Shinrin-yoku is more than a wellness trend. It’s a widely practiced lifestyle habit recommended by doctors, supported by research, and embraced by people of all ages to reduce stress, boost mood, improve health, and slow down the fast pace of modern life.

In this guide, we’ll explore what Shinrin-yoku is, how it works, what Japanese experts say about it, and how you can practice it no matter where you live-even if there’s no forest nearby.

Where Shinrin-yoku Began

Shinrin-yoku started in Japan in the early 1980s when government health officials noticed rising levels of stress and burnout among workers. People were spending more time indoors, surrounded by concrete, screens, and noise. Anxiety and fatigue were becoming common.

The Ministry of Forestry encouraged the Japanese people to return to nature as a way to support mental and physical health. This simple practice became known as Shinrin-yoku-a combination of the words “shinrin” (forest) and “yoku” (bath), meaning “bathing in the forest atmosphere.”

Today, Shinrin-yoku is practiced across Japan and has spread to many other countries. Scientists have studied it for decades, confirming what the Japanese already believed: nature has healing power.

Why Shinrin-yoku Works: The Science Behind It

Forest bathing may sound simple, but its effects on the body are powerful. Researchers in Japan, especially at Chiba University and Nippon Medical School, found that spending time in nature can improve your health in surprising ways.

Let’s break it down in simple language.

1. It Reduces Stress Hormones

Studies show that people who practice Shinrin-yoku see a significant drop in cortisol, the main stress hormone. Forest air, natural sounds, and greenery help calm the nervous system.

This helps:

Reduce anxiety
Lower heart rate
Improve sleep
Reduce feelings of overwhelm

Japanese researchers say this “peace response” is similar to meditation-but easier and more natural.

2. It Strengthens the Immune System

Trees release essential oils called phytoncides. When we inhale them, our immune system responds by boosting natural killer cells-important cells that help fight infections and keep the body strong.

This is one reason Japanese doctors encourage older adults to spend regular time in nature.

3. It Improves Mood and Emotional Well-Being

Nature naturally lifts the mood. In Japan, forest bathing is often recommended for people experiencing:

Sadness
Irritability
Burnout
Social disconnection

People often report feeling calmer and happier after only 15-20 minutes in nature.

4. It Lowers Blood Pressure

Shinrin-yoku has been shown to support heart health by relaxing blood vessels and lowering stress. Even slow walking under the trees can improve circulation.

5. It Helps Clear the Mind

One of the reasons this practice is so popular is because it reduces mental clutter. Many people feel:

More focused
More creative
Less overwhelmed

This is especially helpful for aging adults who want to support brain health and emotional well-being.

6. It Helps You Sleep Better

Nature naturally resets your body’s rhythms. Sunlight, fresh air, and slower breathing help your body relax into a healthier sleep pattern.

What the Japanese Say About Forest Bathing

In Japan, Shinrin-yoku isn’t seen as a luxury-it’s everyday medicine.

Here are common beliefs shared by Japanese wellness experts and locals:

“Nature is a doctor.”

Japanese culture sees nature as a teacher and healer. People believe the forest gives energy just by being present in it.

”When the mind rests, the body follows.”

Many Japanese people say Shinrin-yoku helps them quiet the mind so the body can recharge.

”Forests bring you back to yourself.”

They believe forest bathing reconnects you with your senses-something easy to lose in a busy life.

”Slow is powerful.”

This practice is grounded in slowness. Instead of rushing, Shinrin-yoku teaches you to pause and take your time.

”Even small moments in nature matter.”

Japanese researchers say you don’t need long trips-just 15 minutes in nature can make a difference.

How to Practice Shinrin-yoku (Wherever You Are)

You don’t need a mountain forest to enjoy the benefits. You can practice Shinrin-yoku in:

A local park
Your backyard
A quiet trail
A nearby garden
Any green space

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Slow Down

Walk slowly and take your time. There’s no destination. The goal is simply to be present.

2. Focus on Your Senses

Pay attention to:

What you see (light, trees, colors)
What you hear (birds, water, wind)
What you smell (forest air, plants)
What you feel (breeze, temperature, ground)

This sensory awareness is the heart of Shinrin-yoku.

3. Breathe Deeply

Take long, slow breaths. This helps your nervous system relax.

4. Put Your Phone Away

Disconnecting helps you connect more deeply with the environment-and with your own thoughts.

5. Sit Down for a Moment

Find a rock, bench, or tree trunk. Sit quietly and enjoy the stillness.

6. Walk Without Rushing

Let your body move naturally. No need to track steps or speed.

7. End With Gratitude

Many Japanese people end their walk with a short moment of appreciation-for the trees, the air, and the peace they found.

Benefits of Shinrin-yoku for Older Adults and Seniors

This practice is especially meaningful for aging adults because it supports:

Better mood
Stronger immune function
Improved balance and mobility
Better sleep patterns
Sharper thinking
A sense of peace and connection

Regular gentle walking can also reduce risks of chronic conditions, making forest bathing a safe and natural wellness habit.

How Caregivers Can Use Forest Bathing With Seniors

Caregivers, especially those working with aging adults, can easily integrate nature time into their routines.

Simple activities to try:

A slow walk in a shaded park
Sitting outdoors for fresh air
Gardening together
Listening to nature sounds
Light stretching under a tree

These small moments help seniors stay comfortable, emotionally balanced, and connected to their surroundings.

Is Shinrin-yoku Considered Medicine?

In Japan-yes.
In fact, over 60 forest therapy centers operate across the country where people join guided sessions for health improvement. Doctors sometimes recommend forest bathing as part of treatment for stress, hypertension, and anxiety.

Globally, more countries are recognizing nature as a natural medicine. It’s free, accessible, and powerful.

The Forest Can Heal in Ways We Often Forget

Shinrin-yoku reminds us that slowing down isn’t a weakness-it’s a return to balance. Nature offers something modern life can’t: a quiet space where the mind, body, and spirit can breathe.

You don’t have to be in Japan to enjoy its benefits. A simple walk under the trees, a quiet moment outside, or even tending to a plant at home can bring you back to calm.

Nature is always there. And sometimes, that’s all the medicine we need.

If you’re supporting a loved one who needs gentle movement, emotional balance, companionship, or daily care, RIGHT ACCORD is here for you. Our compassionate caregivers serve families across Sarasota, Venice, Manatee, Lee, and Charlotte Counties, helping seniors stay active, connected, and supported every day.

📞 Call us at 941-366-0801
🌐 Visit: www.rightaccordhealth.com

Let’s bring more peace, wellness, and meaningful moments into the lives of the people you love.

What Is Shinrin-yoku? The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing Explained