The Science With over 30 years of solid scientific research, Shinrin Yoku has demonstrated that time spent in nature can alleviate the impact of stress on the human body and increase wellness. Studies show that Shinrin Yoku is a natural antidepressant, boosts immune function, while even increasing cognitive and creative abilities. Yes, spending time in nature makes you happier, healthier, and smarter!
Chronic Stress According to Harvard Health, Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, a weakened immune system, increasing susceptibility to common infections, asthma, digestive disorders, cancer, and other health problems, including premature aging. Research demonstrates that stress is one of the main causes of chronic illness. In the 1980’s as Japan recognized the physiological and psychological dangers of stress, they researched how to treat it. Shinrin Yoku has its beginnings in this medical movement. The rough translation of Shinrin Yoku is, ‘taking in the forest atmosphere’ or ‘forest bathing.’ My work as a Whole Health Educator is based on disease prevention through teaching people how to regulate stress and balance wellness at all levels, physical, energetic, emotional, nutritional, environmental and spiritual. After discovering Shinrin Yoku and studying the medical research, I began taking my clients into the forest. Once I started, I was hooked after seeing how two to three hours immersed in the forest in a mindful way affected both me and my clients. Now, as a Forest Therapy Guide, I am passionate about sharing this powerful healing practice with others.