What Is Forest Bathing?

 
For most, taking the day to wander the forest, explore a glade, or traverse the countryside has been a positive experience. It disconnects you from your daily life, and it offers a way for you to unwind and relax. But have you ever wondered why these “day trips” work so well?

Forest therapy is an emerging technique in professional circles, and has existed in ancient practices. If you’re not seeking therapy, you can always take part in forest bathing, a practice that comes from the Japanese tradition of Shinrin-yoku. What’s more, terpenes are a part of the forest bathing experience. In this article, True Terpenes is going to share what you need to know about forest bathing before you experience it yourself.

The Genesis Of Forest Bathing

 
Shinrin-yoku involves intentionally and consciously walking through a forest. As you intuitively wander, the forest is said to immerse the mind and promote healing. According to Dr. Qing Li, the author of “Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health And Happiness,” Shinrin-yoku “…is simply being in nature, connecting with it through our senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch.” He also says that, “By opening our senses, it bridges the gap between us and the natural world.” Some would simply call this exercise, camping, or a “walk-about,” but Li believes the connection to nature goes deeper than that.

The term Shinrin-yoku means to “take in the forest atmosphere” or “forest bathing.” In the 1980s, the practice of forest bathing was developed, and it has become a significant part of preventive health care and mental health awareness. Scientists in Japan and South Korea have completed studies that show the numerous benefits of the practice.

Forest bathing guides give some specific, direct instructions if you want to experience it fully. Psychologist Elizabeth Lombardo says in a “mindbodygreen” article that, “Forest bathing encourages you to take deep breaths of clean air and to simply take some time out of your busy life to do something special for yourself.” Forest bathing goes deeper. Not only do you need to take deep breaths, but you need to focus solely on your breath, alternating between your senses, allowing the forest to wash over you.

The Effects Of Forest Bathing On Human Health

As studies have shown, forest bathing can be much more than a “day in the woods.” In fact, a study in the International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology shows that “forest bathing enhances human natural killer activity and expression of cancer cells.” What’s more, the level of adrenaline and noradrenaline has been shown to also be controlled with regular forest bathing or forest therapy.

The science communities continue to research forest bathing as a therapeutic alternative. Clinical and anecdotal evidence shows that forest bathing can be extremely beneficial to those who practice it regularly — especially the technophiles of the world.

Terpenes In Forest Air

If you didn’t already know, terpenes are present in over 30,000 recorded natural sources around the world. Many of those sources are found in forests. For example, Alpha Pinene and Beta Pinene can be found in pine trees. Another example, Limonene has been found to be emitted during the summer in the Rocky Mountains, Colorado; Monti Cimini, Italy; and Black Forest, Southern Germany.

At True Terpenes, we steam distill natural sources to extract these terpenes and more so that you can enjoy them in your own home instead of taking a trip around the world — unless, of course, you enjoy traveling.

How To Get Started With Forest Bathing

While a guided introduction to forest bathing may be the ideal situation, we all do not live near certified guides. Fortunately, you can still enjoy the benefits of Shinrin-yoku.

The first step is to find the right place. You need to find a forest that is secluded from the hustle and bustle of your life. For most, an hour or two drive from your city will get you to an ideal location. In some cases, you may need to do an overnight trip. Ultimately you want to be removed as possible from the sights, smells, and sounds of your modern life.

The second step is to choose a duration and time that is right for you. First, you want to choose a time of day that works for you without adding stress to your life. Second, decide on a duration per session. To start out, you can do two, 30-minute sessions per week and increase your time from there. Overall, the more time you can immerse yourself, the greater the effects.

True Terpenes: A Leader In Precision Botanical Terpene Blends

At True Terpenes, we’re all about natural. Our terpene strains and isolates are certified natural, organic, non-GMO, and food-grade. When you decide to enjoy terpenes, make sure and shop our terpenes for sale online now!