What is forest bathing?

Forest bathing isn’t just a nature walk; it’s a mindful way to explore forests around the world and connect deeply with nature and culture during your travels. (unsplash)

What is Forest Bathing: Forest bathing, called shinrin-yoku in Japan, started in the 1980s as a practice of “taking in the forest atmosphere.” Unlike hiking or casual walking, it’s about slowing down and engaging all your senses with the environment. (unsplash)

It's not just for Japan: Although the term comes from Japan, the idea of immersing in nature exists in many cultures. Forest bathing has spread to forests and parks around the world as a thoughtful way to experience travel landscapes. (unsplash)

Adirondack Mountains, USA: Adirondack Park in New York offers vast forest spaces with miles of trails. Here, guided forest bathing experiences allow travellers to soak in the sights, smells, and textures of evergreen forests. (unsplash)

Costa Rica’s Rainforests: With roughly 60 % forest cover and incredible biodiversity, Costa Rica’s cloud forests and rainforests are ideal for forest bathing. Guided walks through these lush landscapes connect you with nature in a deep, sensory way. (unsplash)

Kenya’s Matthews Range: Forest bathing isn’t only about temperate forests, in Kenya’s Matthews Range, ancient woodlands with endemic plants and unique wildlife invite travellers to explore Africa’s wild landscapes more mindfully. (wikimedia commons)

Waipoua Forest, New Zealand: In North Island’s Waipoua Forest, you walk among ancient kauri trees, sacred to the Māori. Some experiences even combine forest bathing with local Māori songs and storytelling, blending nature with cultural heritage. (unsplash)