Shinrin-yoku is a term that means "taking in the forest atmosphere" or "forest bathing." It was developed in Japan during the 1980s and has become a popular method of preventative health care and healing in Japanese medicine. The idea of shinrin-yoku is about walks in a natural area to relax, calm down and revitalize. Dr Qing Li who is one of the world's top experts in shinrin-yoku shares his experience and results of scientific studies in his book "Shinrin-Yoku: The Art and Science of Forest Bathing". The scientifically-proven benefits of shinrin-yoku include:
- Boosted immune system functioning, with an increase in the count of the body's Natural Killer (NK) cells.
- Reduced blood pressure
- Reduced stress
- Improved mood
- Increased ability to focus
- Accelerated recovery from surgery or illness
- Increased energy level
- Improved sleep
The results of shinrin-yoku are impressive and we can easily apply some of the rules to our regular practice even when we live in the city:
- Every day spend time (30 minutes at least) around trees in the nearby park
- During the walk try to calm your mind by listening to trees rustling and birds singing
- Decorate your balcony or terrace with plants
- Fill your home with house plants
- Vaporise essential tree oils
I like to visit
Park Tarnogajski in my neighborhood. A lot of old trees grow there that create a nice atmosphere. The park was created with funds from the Wrocław Citizens' Budget and opened officially in May 2018. I often visit the park with my kids during the weekends. They ride their bikes and I sit on a bench with a book in my hands ;) In regards to my apartment I have many plants already and I use tree oils (especially pine oil) during hot baths in the winter. The main rules of shining-yoku have already been present in my life for a long time but now I discovered how important they are and what a great impact they have on my health.
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Shinrin-yoku by Dr Qing Lee |
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Park Tarnogajski in Wrocław |
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