Last Sunday we all went Forest Bathing at nearby Tyningham Woods on the Coast in East Lothian.  Forest bathing is no more complicated than simply going for a wander in your local woods or park. The only difference is that rather than walking for exercise, you take the time to really focus on the natural world around you; from the rays of sunlight catching the leaves to birdsong echoing from the canopy.

Today’s busy lives can have a significant impact on our mental and physical wellbeing. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle for a while, why not have a go at forest bathing? Despite the name you won’t need to pack your swimsuit (although that is my usual escape): it simply means the practice of slowing down and immersing yourself in the forest atmosphere.

Forest bathing or ‘shinrin-yoku’ was first developed in Japan in the 1980s following scientific studies conducted by the government. The results showed that two hours of mindful exploration in a forest could reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels and improve concentration and memory. They also found that trees release chemicals called phytoncides.  They have an anti-microbial effect on human bodies, boosting the immune system. As a result of this research, the Japanese government introduced ‘shinrin-yoku’ as a national health programme.

Over the last few years, forest bathing has begun to gain popularity in the UK. Many of us naturally head outside as a way to unwind and feel refreshed.  The benefits of ‘nature therapy’ are also backed up by science: in 2018 academics at the University of Derby found that improving a person’s connection with nature led to significant increases in their wellbeing.