Forest Bathing: a Natural Solution for Eco-Anxiety and Stress [Tips on Finding a Provider]

Is your everyday grind driving you out of your mind? Or just feeling overwhelmed with eco-anxiety and stress? If you’re at your whit’s end, don’t just take my word for it, step outside, connect with nature and experience the difference firsthand. It will do wonders. But how often do you consider doing this and actually follow through? That’s what I thought. Well, guess what? I’m here to motivate. It’s time to get off that chair, detach from your screens, and venture into the great outdoors! Before you do, allow me to explain why it’s crucial to make this a regular practice.

Forest bathing: the best way to manage eco-anxiety and stress, naturally!

Nobody knows the stress of eco-anxiety better than you do. I’m right there with you. I really, truly know how you feel. I’m writing this post with one thing in mind: (y)our sanity. I want to tell you the best way to reduce stress and recharge. And the single best remedy that I know of, one that you may be overlooking, is explained below. Hang on and I’ll tell you all about how to do this.

What, no forest in your area? Then pick any natural place where you can get away from the concrete and asphalt. Take your pick: a park, a meadow, a garden, a mountain, beach , stream or riverside.

You’re not alone, not by far

The hardest part of being an eco-passionate human might be looking around us and seeing so many people bury their heads in the sand. We know the ones. They seem to have it so easy, don’t they? Trust me, they might not be aware of it, but they’re no more immune than we are to the stress of our climate and ecological crises. Subconsciously, they feel the same pressure to change things, but many people don’t yet have the tools needed to face the intensifying challenges of our new reality. I’ve said it before: compassion is key.

Since compassion helps us to connect, don’t you think just about anyone would benefit from some outdoor time? Nature has a calming effect on all of us and can help us feel more relaxed and at peace. Panic is the world’s worst advisor. Not to mention, every stressed out human is a source of stress for another human. So, take the deniers with you!

Take the deniers with you, they need it too!

What if there was a quick and easy way to bring back the calm even for those unaware of how stressed they are? I’m telling you, take them outdoors. Use any excuse. What better way is there to drive the message home than to let them feel the healing power of unspoiled nature? Obviously, there’s more to managing anxiety and stress than simply getting outdoors, but just for some quick and easy relief, you really may want to try this.

Socializing with eco-crises deniers?

Take ’em along for a walk. It helps both of you! You don’t even have to say a word, other than “for our health,” to justify or rationalize it! Make it just a friend-to-friend gesture.

My advice when socializing with deniers? Don’t mention anything about any crisis or urgency while enjoying the outdoors–it’s a time for peaceful calm that you both urgently need. Or make it a point to just listen without making opposing comments (in my free, live workshop, we get into how to do this). Instead, just get out and let Nature do her work. Trust that the effect of being outdoors in nature will help your friend or neighbor, no matter what they may say about it. Your only job is to be out there while keeping your minds open and senses awake and not react to provocations. (Stay tuned – More on this coming soon!)

What is Forest Bathing?

Shinrin-yoku, also known as “forest bathing,” is a practice that originated in Japan. It involves immersing oneself in nature and using all five senses to connect with the natural environment. This practice has become increasingly popular worldwide, in places such as Germany and the United States and many other countries as well.

What about the benefits of just getting outdoors and forgetting about this ‘forest bathing’ crap?

Sure! Spending any time outdoors can do wonders for our health. Here are a few of the actual benefits that getting outdoors has on our mental health and general well being:

• Reduces stress and anxiety: Being in nature has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol, a hormone that is associated with stress. Spending time outdoors can help us feel more relaxed and calm, reducing feelings of anxiety.
• Improves mood: Spending time in nature has been linked to improved mood and increased feelings of happiness. The fresh air and sunshine can help to boost our serotonin levels, which can help to improve our mood.
• Boosts creativity: Being in a natural environment can help to stimulate creativity and increase our ability to think outside the box. It can also help to improve focus and concentration.
• Increases physical activity: Spending time outdoors often involves physical activity, such as hiking or walking. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Overall, getting outdoors is a simple but effective way to improve our well being. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the mountains, or just sitting in the sun, spending time in nature can help us feel happier, more relaxed, and more creative. And, when we have the time or inclination, we can easily take it to the next level…

Naturally, you’re not going to win the attention of skeptics without some science to back you up. So here are a few points you can share with those who want see some some science.

How does forest bathing reduce stress?

Forest bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku, is the practice of spending time in a forest or other natural environment to improve overall well-being. Several studies have found that forest bathing can have numerous benefits for mental and physical health.

One study published in the International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology found that forest bathing can increase the activity of natural killer cells, which are responsible for fighting off viruses and cancer cells. Another study published in the Journal of Physiological Anthropology found that forest bathing can decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol, leading to reduced stress and anxiety.

Furthermore, a study published in Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine found that forest bathing can improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and heart rate. In addition, forest bathing has been shown to improve mood, cognitive function, and immune system function.

Overall, the scientific evidence suggests that forest bathing can have significant benefits for both mental and physical health. So, if you have the opportunity to spend time in a forest or other natural environment, it may be worth taking advantage of this practice to give yourself a lift.

Shinrin-yoku offered as professional service

Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese term that translates to “forest bathing,” which refers to the practice of immersing oneself in nature to improve overall well-being. Those who offer shinrin-yoku experiences are typically trained guides who lead participants on a gentle walk through a forest or natural area, encouraging them to engage with their surroundings using all five senses.

During a shinrin-yoku experience, participants may be invited to pause and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world around them. They may also be encouraged to engage in activities such as breathing exercises, meditation, or journaling. The goal of a shinrin-yoku experience is to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and provide a sense of connection to the natural world.

Shinrin-yoku guides may also provide educational information about the plants, animals, and ecosystems that participants encounter during their walk. Some guides may specialize in certain areas, such as medicinal plants or birdwatching, and tailor their walks accordingly.

Overall, those who offer shinrin-yoku experiences aim to provide a unique and restorative experience in nature, one that promotes physical, mental, and emotional health.

Shinrin-yoku providers in Germany

There are several Shinrin-yoku providers in Germany, which is where I live, that offer guided forest immersion experiences.

One such provider is the Association of Forest Therapy, which offers certified training programs for forest therapy guides. Another provider is the Shinrin-yoku Academy, which offers workshops and retreats focused on the practice of Shinrin-yoku.

Forest therapy walks are also offered by various organizations and individuals throughout Germany, including eco-tourism companies and naturalist guides. These walks are designed to promote stress relief, mental clarity, and overall well-being through immersion in nature.

One such provider is the Forest Therapy Institute, which offers a variety of programs and workshops throughout Germany that focus on the practice of shinrin-yoku.

Another option is Shinrin Yoku Germany, which provides guided forest walks and other activities designed to help individuals connect with nature and improve their overall health.

Other providers worth considering include Waldbegegnung, which offers nature-based therapy sessions and retreats, and the European Forest Institute, which hosts a variety of events and activities focused on sustainable forest management and conservation.

In addition to guided experiences, there are also numerous forests and nature reserves throughout Germany where individuals can practice Shinrin-yoku on their own. Some of the most popular destinations for forest bathing in Germany include the Black Forest, the Bavarian Forest, and the Harz Mountains.

The practice of Shinrin-yoku has surged in popularity in Germany in recent years and there are a variety of resources available for anyone interested in experiencing the benefits. I highly recommend it!

Shinrin-yoku providers in the USA

Also in the United States, where I come from originally, Shinrin-yoku is emerging and rising in popularity as many US-Americans have been catching on that spending time in nature offers a super simple, straightforward and highly affordable means for improving overall physical and mental well-being.

Here are some Shinrin-yoku providers in the USA:

1. Association of Nature and Forest Therapy: This organization offers training and certification programs for forest therapy guides and has a directory of certified guides throughout the United States.
2. Shinrin Yoku Los Angeles: This organization offers guided forest therapy walks in the Los Angeles area and provides information on the benefits of forest therapy.
3. The Medicine Tree: This organization offers forest therapy walks and workshops in the San Francisco Bay Area and provides education on the health benefits of spending time in nature.
4. Cedar and Soul: This organization offers forest therapy walks and workshops in the Pacific Northwest and provides information on the practice of Shinrin-yoku and its benefits.
5. The River’s Path: This organization offers forest therapy walks and workshops in the Rocky Mountains region and provides education on the healing power of nature.

These are just a few of the Shinrin-yoku providers in the USA. If you’d like to find out more about forest therapy and its benefits, consider reaching out to one of these organizations or exploring other resources in your area.

No matter which provider you choose, the practice of shinrin-yoku can be a wonderful way to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall health and well-being. So why not give it a try and see how it can benefit you?

Above are just a few of the Shinrin-yoku providers in Germany and the USA. If you are interested in learning more about forest therapy and its benefits, consider reaching out to one of these organizations or exploring other resources in your area. Some quick search engine research using your region and the words forest bathing as your search terms should do the trick.

Conclusion

The reasons are plentiful to give it a try as a readily available solution to (y)our excessive stress. As research has shown, connecting with nature has a multitude of positive effects on our physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s the soothing impact of trees, the fresh air, or the opportunity to disconnect from technology, forest therapy can offer a much-needed escape and relief from the demands of our modern lives. So why not venture into the woods and immerse yourself in the healing power of nature? You might just find yourself feeling refreshed and more connected to the world around you. Try shinrin-yoku for yourself and discover the potential benefits it brings for reducing stress, improving mood, and promoting overall health and well-being. And if that’s not motivation enough, then you’ll just have to join me for a walk in the woods!

For more tips on eco-passionate stress management, feel free to join me for a live talk on this crucial topic. Let’s work together towards maintaining calm and staying on target with our eco-passionate goals. Check out the available dates under “Events” and I hope to see you soon!

Know somone who could use this? Please share! Did you find this helpful? Please leave a comments down below!

Other Helpful Resources:

• 9 Simple Sanity Savers for Eco-Passionate Humans

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