Tuesday 10 December 2019

Shinrin Yoku: The Japanese Art & Science of Forest Bathing

To me a lush carpet of pine needles or spongy grass is more welcome than the most luxurious Persian rug. ~ Helen Keller
I had a reunion with an old school friend visiting from Japan, who presented me with a gift - a bottle of Hinoki essential oil (aka Japanese Cypress, or Chamaecyparis obtusa).

My friend told me that Hinoki is a type of cypress tress that grows only in the southern forests of Japan. Hinoki wood is what traditional Japanese bath tubs are made from. I was interested to discover that Hinoki is popular as a building material for sacred constructions, such as river shrines and temples. It is one of the 5 Sacred Trees of the Kiso Forest.

I was delighted, opened it up right away, and deeply inhaled its refreshing and uplifting woody scent.

For a moment I imagined myself walking meditatively in a misty and mysterious Japanese forest, breathing in crisp fresh forest air... breathing out all the cares I had the world...

I was reminded of the concept of Shinrin Yoku, a Japanese term meaning 'forest bathing'. Not literally having a bath in the forest, but the restorative act of taking the sights, sounds and sensations of a leisurely walk in the woods.

I became aware that I held a little piece of Japanese forest in the palm of my hand. I could recreate the atmosphere of Shinrin Yoku at home with my essential oil burner. I was also excited at the prospect of being mentally transported to a traditional Japanese bathtub in my own bathroom by simply adding the essential oil to my bath blends.


As an essential oil, Hinoki has stress relieving, relaxing, antimicrobial, antifungal, antiviral, immunity boosting and insect repellant properties, so it's clear to see why this tree has been so valued for its cleansing and purifying benefits in buildings and bathtubs.

Shinrin Yoku is a concept I came across some years ago. The Forest Agency of Japan first came up with this idea in 1982, promoting a sense of health and wellbeing by taking restorative trips to the forest. Its popularity continues to this day with over 48 forests trails in Japan officially dedicated to Shinrin Yoku forest bathing.

Most of us know intuitively that spending time outside connecting with the elements is good for the soul, but in fact there has been extensive research extolling its benefits, from the physiological effects on immunity boosting, nervous system, cardiovascular system, to the psycho-spiritual effects on our mood, mind and holistic well being.

As a herbalist and forager the concept resonates with my chosen way of life. I'm made aware of the great benefits of the healing power of nature time and time again with my own eyes and experience guiding groups for walks and sharing the abundant healing benefits of nature together.

I love feeling the warmth of the sun, cleansing natural water, cooling breezes and grounding earth. I have had many personal experiences of an increased sense of happiness and wellbeing spending time outdoors, so I was not at all surprised to hear that extensive research on how this affects us confirms what we already know deep in our bones.

How do you evoke the healing benefits of the forest in your life? Do you visit the woods near you? Where are your favourite forest bathing spots? Do you use woody essential oils blends, incenses or something else to bring the essence of the forest into your own home?

I'd love to hear your own experiences of forest bathing and healing power of walking in the woods. I welcome you to share your reflections in the comments.


Fiona Morris
The Natural Healing Guide

Herbalist, Massage Therapist,
Mystic & Holistic Business Mentor

Let's connect: Facebook I Twitter I Blog I Instagram I Pinterest
Click here to receive your Nourish & Flourish Love Letters