Forest bathing

Forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, is a practice of submerging oneself in the forest in order to improve health, well-being and reduce stress.

It is an activity practiced for centuries in Japan and other cultures to reconnect with the powerful and healing energy of trees. It is gradually spreading in Europe and the United States.

Benefits

Improves the feeling of well-being and vitality.

Forest bathing is an activity with great tradition in different cultures of the world that invites to spiritually heal the people who practice it. The simple act of walking through the forest activates four senses - sight, hearing, smell and touch - which provide a sense of well-being.

Reduces stress levels

Breathing oxygen-rich air contributes to healthy respiratory and circulatory systems. This is why forest bathing reduces blood pressure and the level of the stress hormone cortisol in the body. Overexposure to cortisol and other stress hormones can increase the risk of anxiety, depression, heart disease, overweight as well as poor memory and concentration.

Improves the immune system

Stress hormones can compromise the immune system. It is therefore not uncommon for forest baths, by reducing cortisol production, to strengthen our defence system.

ADDITIONALLY…

Reduces anxiety and irritability

Improves creativity

Promotes restorative rest

How to benefit from a forest bath?

Don't rush it

Forest baths are not part of your fitness routine. During a forest bath you could walk between two or four kilometres in two to three hours.

Relax. Reduce the crazy pace of everyday life. Connect with nature and enjoy every sensation that the forest inspires.

Silence

Respect the sounds of the forest and its silence; avoid noise (telephone, etc.).

Take your time

Although the benefits of a forest bath can be enjoyed after 30 minutes of walking, we recommend staying as long as you can.

Respect

A great forest bath requires an exercise of respect. Respect for the environment and the people in it. You’ll have a sense of a "private area” to immerse yourself in nature.

Most of all, enjoy it. Every walk is different, and so will every sensation.

The Galician Arboretum is a member of the international QUIET GARDEN MOVEMENT that brings together gardens that offer a calm and quiet setting for recollection and meditation.

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