Shinrin-yoku is a powerful kind of mindfulness in the forest from Japan to become healthier, calmer and happier. The fresh air, the scents of the forest, the chirping of birds and the rustle of the wind are relaxing after a busy day. Shinrin is Japanese for "forest" and yoku for "bath" or the art of forest bathing. Through a Shinrin-yoku walk in the forest you connect with nature. In Japanese medicine it is an effective therapy for stress, insomnia and depression. More and more people are discovering that Shinrin-yoku has a positive effect on your body and mind. The New York Times calls it 'the new yoga trend'. International scientists have also demonstrated the beneficial health effects of the forest bath on your blood pressure, brain and immune system. Every study conducted so far has demonstrated reductions in stress, anger, anxiety, depression and sleeplessness amongst the participants. 

How does it work?
Not only are you out in the fresh air, you breathe the natural oils that trees and plants spread as communication substances (phytoncides) to protect against animals, insects and micro-organisms. It turns out that these natural essential oils help with chronic pain, stress, a low resistance and give a positive boost to your immune system. The more varied the vegetation in the forest, the more different ethereal substances there are in the air that you breathe. Because you relax, your breathing, heart rate and stress hormones enter a rest mode, making you more relaxed and energetic. You get more energy. 

Dive into the forest
Would you like to experience Shinrin-yoku yourself? Choose a nice walking route and take a dip in the forest. Walk in silence and leave your phone at home. Listen to the wind, smell the scents of flowers and plants and feel the sun on your skin. Pause from time to time and listen to the sounds around you or look more closely  at the various flowers or herbs. Enjoy!