Welcome to New Leaf Nature & Wellbeing CIC
Forest Bathing
Forest bathing isn't about exercise or hiking but simply “being” in nature, connecting with it through all our senses. It encourages us to slow down, be mindful, and enjoy the sights, sounds, feel and smells of the natural world around you.
In our fast-paced, high stress, technology-driven world, finding ways to reconnect with nature is more important than ever. Forest bathing is a practice that has gained popularity for its profound effects on mental and physical health.
Originating from Japan, where it is known as "Shinrin-yoku," forest bathing involves immersing yourself in a forest environment to experience its calming and rejuvenating effects.
Forest bathing, done properly, isn't just a whimsical escape; it's now backed by scientific research showing significant benefits for overall wellbeing.
Forest bathing offers a natural, simple, and effective way to enhance your mental and physical health.
By immersing yourself in the calming environment of nature, you can reduce stress, boost your mood, improve immune function, and support cardiovascular health.
Holistic Wellbeing Benefits of Forest Bathing
A study published in Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine found that people who took part in forest bathing had lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, compared to those who spent time in urban environments. The natural setting of forests helps reduce stress and anxiety by lowering blood pressure and heart rates.
One of the amazing physical health benefits of forest bathing is its positive impact on the immune system. A study by Qing Li from Nippon Medical School in Tokyo found that spending time in forests increased the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which play a crucial role in the body's defence against infections and cancer.
The study attributed this boost in immunity to phytoncides, natural chemicals released by trees. Phytoncides have antibacterial and anti fungal qualities which help plants fight disease.
When people breathe in these chemicals, our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells or (NK).
These cells kill tumour- and virus-infected cells in our bodies.
Forest bathing can also contribute to improved cardiovascular health. Research published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health showed that participants who practiced forest bathing experienced significant reductions in blood pressure and heart rate, which are key indicators of heart health.
Forest Bathing at New Leaf Nature and Wellbeing CIC
Forest Bathing is one of the wonderful nature based activities that forms a key part of the holistic wellbeing practices that we offer.
Our guided sessions combine breathing exercises and relaxation techniques as you take in the sounds, sights and smells of the forest whilst feeling it on and around your skin and body.
We leave technology behind and we may choose to journal afterwards or have a cuppa and share our reflections.
Forest Bathing is a part of our programmes and we also hold forest bathing sessions available to book for you and the family to come along to as well.
Study References
References: Park, B. J., Tsunetsugu, Y., Kasetani, T., Kagawa, T., & Miyazaki, Y. (2010). The physiological effects of Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing): evidence from field experiments in 24 forests across Japan. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, 15(1), 18-26. Link Pretty, J., Peacock, J., Sellens, M., & Griffin, M. (2005). The mental and physical health outcomes of green exercise. International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 15(5), 319-337. Link Li, Q., Morimoto, K., Kobayashi, M., Inagaki, H., Katsumata, M., Hirata, Y., ... & Miyazaki, Y. (2008). Visiting a forest, but not a city, increases human natural killer activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, 21(1), 117-127. Link Song, C., Ikei, H., Park, B. J., Lee, J., Kagawa, T., & Miyazaki, Y. (2016). Psychological benefits of walking through forest areas. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 13(7), 728. Link
Contact Us
New Leaf Farm and Forest, Back Lane,
Eaton CW12 2NG
