Shinrin-yoku literally means “to bathe in the atmosphere of a forest”.
In the early 1980s, this concept was created in Japan to counterbalance the highly urbanized society.

While forest bathing, you let nature flow into your body and mind through your senses.
In this way, you can immerse yourself in the healing atmosphere of the forest.
This activates the self-healing capacity of your body and mind.

With shinrin-yoku you consciously enter into contact with nature.
You ask the forest to welcome you and protect you on your path. The forest then invites you to slow down and get into the here-and-now. You experience a deep relaxation. You get out of your head and into your inner silence. At the same time, you feel more energized.

Plants and trees produce so-called phytoncides that we breathe in through the air.
These phytoncides
-activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which provides rest and recovery
-lower blood pressure

-activate the immune system
-promote recovery from stress (cortisol levels are reduced)
-increase the amount of natural killer cells, which play an important role in our natural defense against viruses and diseases.

These results have all been scientifically proven, both in Japan and abroad.

On Samos I experience all this first-hand. I like to walk with Daisy in the beautiful nature of Samos and then relax inwardly (although it can be physically strenuous to go into the mountains).

Quote (source unknown):
“A tree with strong roots laughs at the wind
And in the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul”

Next time I’ll share an exercise that will help you feel a deep connection with nature.

Namaste!