Forest bathing by prescription
In our modern world, we spend most of the day indoors. Screens, appointments, and constant availability shape our everyday lives. The result: stress, exhaustion and inner restlessness have increased significantly.
As a response to the growing stress levels of the modern working world, the health concept of Shinrin Yoku emerged in Japan as early as the 1980s. The term literally means “immersing oneself in the atmosphere of the forest”. In Japan, this form of therapy has even been prescribed by doctors since the 1980s.
Meanwhile, so-called “forest bathing” has also become increasingly popular in Europe – even though we are still far from prescribing forest bathing on prescription here.
The healing effect of nature
Spending time outdoors and in nature creates a natural counterbalance to our stress-filled everyday lives, which mostly take place indoors. Anyone who consciously spends time in nature often notices a change after only a short while: the body relaxes, breathing becomes calmer and thoughts become clearer.
This feeling of well-being is now well supported by scientific evidence. Numerous studies show that spending time in nature measurably reduces stress hormones, has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and strengthens the immune system. These effects are particularly strong when spending time in the forest. This is due not only to the calming greenery and silence, but above all to the special air of the forest.
Terpenes – the healing agents of the forest
The trees of the forest – especially spruces, pines and firs – produce so-called terpenes. These natural aromatic substances help plants communicate with one another, protect themselves from predators and defend against pathogens. For humans, they have a calming and health-promoting effect through the air we breathe.
Terpenes not only have a relaxing and mood-enhancing effect, but also strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown that the number of certain natural defense cells in the blood can increase by up to 40 percent under the influence of terpenes – and this effect can last for almost a week.
Particularly interesting is a study that was able to demonstrate that forest bathing reduces the activity of the amygdala. This is a region of the brain that plays a key role in processing stress and emotions and is central to our mental health.
A break for the soul
Since forest bathing is not yet available here on prescription, we should regularly prescribe ourselves a dose of the forest. No special equipment is needed – what matters far more is the right mindset. It is not about athletic performance or covering as many kilometers as possible. What truly matters is conscious slowing down and mindful awareness of nature.
How does the ground feel beneath your feet? What sounds can you hear? What does the air smell like? And what fragrance rises from the earth?
If we take at least an hour for this and leave our smartphones switched off, we quickly notice how our thoughts become calmer and a deep inner peace sets in. We regain new energy and enjoy this little break for the soul.
Forest bathing can be a simple yet effective counterbalance to our stressful everyday lives – one of the easiest ways to recharge our energy and reconnect with our inner balance. Anyone who regularly spends time in the forest will soon realize that peace and quiet are not a luxury, but a basic human need.