IF YOU GO DOWN TO THE WOODS...

Find sanctuary in nature with the Women’s Fitness guide to forest bathing

- Eve Boggenpoel

Imagine lying in a hushed forest, the soft mossy earth cradling your body and distant birdsong drifting slowly towards you. As you lift your gaze, you lose yourself in the pattern of a thousand sun-drenched leaves dancing in the canopy above. It's a timeless image, and you wish you could bask in the moment for ever....

Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, has been growing in popularity in recent years, with the winning design at the 2024 Chelsea Garden Show being inspired by the Japanese practice. But what exactly is forest bathing, and how can it help you?

GRASS ROOTS

'Our definition of forest bathing is "spending mindful time under the canopy of trees for wellbeing",' explains Gary Evans, director of the Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI, tfb.institute). 'Usually, nature is a backdrop to another activity, such as walking with friends, cycling or running. In forest bathing, the primary purpose of your time outside is to appreciate nature itself.'

Ula Maria, who designed the winning Chelsea garden, agrees. 'For me, forest bathing is all about being truly and fully present in the moment - soaking in the nature around you, noticing the trees, the shape of leaves, their movement and the wildlife and sounds that come with it,' she tells Women's Fitness. 'The more immersed you are in nature, the stronger the benefits for wellbeing.'