The Origins of Forest Bathing

18th June 2023

The practice of Forest Bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku, originated in Japan in the 1980s. The term "Shinrin-yoku" was coined by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries in 1982 and can be translated as "taking in the forest atmosphere" or "forest bathing."

The development of Forest Bathing as a therapeutic practice was a response to the rapid urbanisation and technological advancements being experienced in Japan. Since the 1970s Japan has seen substantial increases in anxiety and stress-related illness, attributed to increased urbanisation and working long overtime hours. In fact the Japanese have coined the term ‘Karoshi’ (過労死) which can be translated literally as ‘overwork death’, to describe this type of sudden occupational mortality. Stress-related illness and the increased exposure to urban environments and the associated stress and health issues led to a growing interest in finding ways to reconnect with nature.

The concept of Forest Bathing draws inspiration from ancient Shinto and Buddhist practices that emphasise the spiritual and healing qualities of nature, as well as Japanese cultural traditions and beliefs that emphasise the restorative powers of nature. Japanese culture has long celebrated the spiritual and aesthetic connections between humans and the natural world. Forests, in particular, hold a special place in Japanese culture, often associated with tranquility, beauty, and spiritual renewal. Forest bathing also incorporates other elements of traditional Japanese culture, such as the appreciation of natural beauty and the practice of mindfulness.

Forest Medicine

In the 1980s, the Japanese government launched a series of studies to investigate the health benefits of spending time in forests. These studies examined the physiological and psychological effects of being immersed in a forest environment. Researchers measured various indicators, such as blood pressure, heart rate, cortisol levels, and immune system responses, before and after participants engaged in forest activities.

The findings of these studies suggested that spending time in forests could have a positive impact on human health and wellbeing. Forest environments were found to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, and improve mood. These findings also led to the recognition and promotion of Forest Bathing as a therapeutic practice in Japan and as a form of preventative healthcare. In the 1990’s the Japanese Government started to fund designated ‘Shinrin Yoku Trails’. The first Shinrin Yoku trail to open in Japan was Akasawa in Nagano prefecture, in an area known as The Samurai Trail. The Akiasawa Forest is said to be one of the most beautiful in Japan and has an abundance of Japanese Cypress or Hinoki and is now referred to as the Akasawa National Recreation Forest or ‘Rest Forest’. It was designated as a Forest Therapy Centre in 2006 and has eight Shinrin-Yoku trails to meet different peoples’ fitness and time availability requirements. These trails vary from 1.5 km to 3.5 km in length.

There are now 65 Forest Therapy centres across Japan. Each centre has a Forest Therapy base and marked trails as well as certified Forest Therapy guides.

Since then, Forest Bathing has gained international recognition as a form of nature therapy. It has spread to other countries, and numerous studies have further explored its benefits. Forest Bathing is now seen as a way to counterbalance the stresses of modern life and promote mental and physical well-being through immersion in nature.

Relevance in Today’s World

Whereas Japan appears to be addressing this lack of nature-connection in modern life, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests a continued and increasing disconnection from nature in the United Kingdom and other Western countries. Several studies and reports have highlighted this issue, pointing out the consequences and implications of reduced contact with the natural environment. Here are some key pieces of evidence:

1. Nature Deficit Disorder
   The concept of "Nature Deficit Disorder" was first described by Richard Louv in his book "The Last Child in the Woods." Although not a medically recognised disorder, it refers to the negative consequences of spending less time in nature, particularly among children. Research indicates that children in the UK are spending less time outdoors, less time engaging in unstructured play, and less time experiencing nature compared to previous generations.

2. Nature Deficit Health Impacts
   Research suggests that this kind of disconnection from nature can have adverse effects on mental and physical health. Lack of exposure to green spaces and natural environments has been linked to increased stress levels, higher rates of mental health issues, reduced cognitive function, and decreased overall wellbeing.

3. Decline in Outdoor Activities
   Various studies have shown a decline in outdoor activities and a decrease in nature-related experiences in the UK across all age groups. Children and adults alike are spending more time indoors, often engaged in sedentary activities such as watching television, using electronic devices, or playing video games, which reduces their exposure to nature.

4. Urbanisation and Loss of Green Spaces
   The UK has experienced significant urbanisation, leading to the loss of green spaces, including parks, woodlands, and natural habitats. Rapid urban development and the conversion of green areas into built environments have resulted in reduced access to natural environments for many people, especially those living in cities.

5. Sedentary Lifestyles and Obesity
   The decline in outdoor activities and increase in sedentary behaviours has contribute to a rise in obesity rates, particularly among children, in the UK. Limited access to natural spaces and reduced opportunities for physical activity in nature can have detrimental effects on public health.

6. Loss of Biodiversity Awareness
   Disconnecting from nature can also result in a reduced understanding and awareness of biodiversity and environmental issues. Without direct experiences in natural settings, individuals may become less inclined to appreciate and protect the natural world.

These pieces of evidence highlight the need to address the disconnection from nature in the UK and emphasise the importance of promoting engagement in nature-based experiences, creating and preserving green spaces, and fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment for the wellbeing of individuals and the health of the planet.