The Benefits of Forest Bathing

Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku, is the Japanese practice of immersing oneself in a forest environment to enhance well-being. This experience, which involves mindful engagement with nature, has been studied extensively for its benefits to physical, mental, and emotional health.

When you immerse yourself in nature you are supporting your health and healing. The sights and sounds around you can bring in a sense of calm that in turn can help you.

The Benefits of Forest Bathing

Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Spending time in a forest environment significantly lowers levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. The calming atmosphere and natural sounds of the forest reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve overall mental well-being. 

Boost Immune Function

Trees release essential oils called phytoncides, which have antimicrobial properties. Breathing in these substances during forest bathing has been shown to increase the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which play a crucial role in the immune system's defense against viruses and cancer cells.

Improve Mood

Exposure to nature boosts levels of serotonin, the brain’s natural mood stabilizer, and increases feelings of happiness and contentment. It also helps reduce symptoms of depression and improve emotional regulation.

Increase Energy Levels

Being in nature can boost vitality and reduce fatigue. The fresh air, combined with the physical activity involved in walking through a forest, promotes higher energy levels and reduces feelings of exhaustion.

Encourage Mindfulness

Forest bathing promotes mindfulness by encouraging people to engage their senses fully. The sights, sounds, and smells of the forest help individuals become more present and aware, fostering a deeper connection to their surroundings.

Enhance Sleep Quality

Spending time in nature helps regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality. The reduction in stress and anxiety, along with increased relaxation, can lead to deeper and more restorative sleep.

By engaging with nature in a mindful, immersive way, forest bathing offers a holistic approach to well-being. It's a practice that encourages slowing down, tuning in to the environment, and reconnecting with the natural world.

There is a lot to navigate when you are living with cancer. Learning how to find peace and calm is an important part of the healing process. When you can bring peace, calm, and health building tools into your life you start to reclaim your life and choose to learn how to live with cancer. Cancer does not get to control your life, you do. 

If you would like to know more about the concept of living with cancer I have written a book all about my personal experience with moving from survivor to thriver. In my book I offer anecdotes and strategies that will encourage you to learn how to thrive with cancer. You can get a copy of Living to Thrive: a holistic guide to living with cancer here.

Kathryn White is a Certified Holistic Cancer Coach who supports women to turn their cancer diagnosis into a thriving story one woman at a time.