In Japan forest bathing has been around for some time - an official term was introduced in 1982: Shinrin-yoku means getting in touch with and taking in the forest atmosphere - or forest bathing. Nowadays it is mainly associated with relaxation and stress reduction. [1] Some studies have investigated the differences between exercising in nature or in urban areas by dividing the participants into groups and sending them for walks in the different environments. They found out that, apart from physical activity, the natural atmosphere has a positive effect on mood, stress and anger. These findings were measured, among other things, by the stress hormone cortisol, which was was lower after walking in the forest than after walking through the city [2]. The forest has numerous health promoting effects: noise protection, gentle light, clean air, balanced temperature conditions, soft forest soil, pleasant forest noises and much more. Our immune system also benefits from the forest: a combined effect of phytoncides which are secondary plant substances and other positive mechanisms increase our natural killer cells' activity which in turn strengthens our natural defences [3].

At the same time our sensory organs are differently and diversely triggered when spending time in the forest. Natural stimuli such as wind or ground noises, the chirping of birds, the smell of the forest and the natural, green surroundings all help us relax. The latter is of particular importance as people mostly rely on the sensory input provided by the eyes. Nature is designed fractally meaning there are a lot of recurring and self-similar forms. People evidently feel more comfortable with natural fractals and find themselves in an awake and relaxed state - we are in good hands in nature! [4] Well-being and relaxation experienced in the forest are subjective and dependent on experiences and imprint but the majority of the population benefits from the effects of the forest.

Have fun bathing!