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Shinrin Yoku: The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing
Experience the healing power of nature!
Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is the Japanese practice of connecting deeply with nature. It is a practice that involves all the senses and has extraordinary effects on health and happiness. The latest health and wellness trend, it has been touted as the new yoga by international media outlets. In Shinrin Yoku, nature meets modern science in a lushly illustrated book about the healing power of trees. Yoshifumi Miyazaki explains the science behind forest bathing and explores the many health benefits, including reduced stress, lower blood pressure, improved mood, and increased focus and energy. This useful guide also teaches the reader how to bring the benefits of the forest into the home through the use of essential oils, cypress baths, flower therapy, and more.
Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is the Japanese practice of connecting deeply with nature. It is a practice that involves all the senses and has extraordinary effects on health and happiness. The latest health and wellness trend, it has been touted as the new yoga by international media outlets. In Shinrin Yoku, nature meets modern science in a lushly illustrated book about the healing power of trees. Yoshifumi Miyazaki explains the science behind forest bathing and explores the many health benefits, including reduced stress, lower blood pressure, improved mood, and increased focus and energy. This useful guide also teaches the reader how to bring the benefits of the forest into the home through the use of essential oils, cypress baths, flower therapy, and more.
192 pages, Hardcover
First published March 1, 2018
63 people are currently reading
925 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
May 20, 2018
I have always been interested in the link between health and nature. This book goes into some of the science and some of the scientists trying to show how being in or around nature can yield positive health benefits.
The book was interesting, though slightly repetitive. My favorite part of the book was the absolutely gorgeous pictures of nature. I wonder if seeing pictures of nature can still yield health benefits? I know I felt more relaxed when looking at the pictures! Though in eBook format, the pictures were sometimes split between screens, which wasn't ideal.
This book definitely makes me want to go to Japan and go to one of the nature programs they have for shinrin yoku. Japan is beautiful!
I would recommend this book if you are interested in health, nature and bio-science. 3 solid stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
The book was interesting, though slightly repetitive. My favorite part of the book was the absolutely gorgeous pictures of nature. I wonder if seeing pictures of nature can still yield health benefits? I know I felt more relaxed when looking at the pictures! Though in eBook format, the pictures were sometimes split between screens, which wasn't ideal.
This book definitely makes me want to go to Japan and go to one of the nature programs they have for shinrin yoku. Japan is beautiful!
I would recommend this book if you are interested in health, nature and bio-science. 3 solid stars.
My thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
June 21, 2018
Books like this are scary because some people choose this type of theory over pills and real medical help. Serious forms of depressions and other medical problems will not go away by hanging out in a forest or park. Most therapist do recommend going outside or taking a walk because it can be helpful.
There are beautiful pictures of trees which I enjoyed more than the writing. Many of the information is already well known from studies and research throughout the years. I really just wished they did not refer to it as therapy.
Of course this will not stop me from enjoying nature and the beauty of forests.
There are beautiful pictures of trees which I enjoyed more than the writing. Many of the information is already well known from studies and research throughout the years. I really just wished they did not refer to it as therapy.
Of course this will not stop me from enjoying nature and the beauty of forests.
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November 29, 2022Huvitav raamat looduse positiivsest mõjust inimeste füüsilisele ja vaimsele tervisele. Teksti illustreerisid kaunid fotod Jaapani loodusmaastikest, niisamuti oli peatükkide vahele pikitud kauneid ja sügavamõttelisi mõtteteri puudest. Keda huvitab shirin yoku ja muud kasulikud praktikad, peab raamatust lugema vaid õige pisut, kuna valdav osa on pühendatud shirin yoku kasulikkuse teduslikule põhjendamisele, seda siis erinevate eksperimentide kaudu. Huvitav on aga märkida, et eksperimentides on enamasti kasutatud meessoost katsealuseid ning sellisel baasil on loodud ka autori järeldused. Üldse tundus eksperimentide osa natuke liiga lihtsana, et olla teaduslik. Aga see selleks, muidu oli raamat väärt lugemist ning enda jaoks leidsin mitmeid huvitavaid asju, mida edaspidi enese lõõgastamisel proovida.
February 22, 2019
The book was written in a way that seemed intended for children. Also I got the impression that with so much repetition and fillers the author just wanted to create a book out of a few pages with minimal effort. The information was good although the amount was small. Interesting topic.
May 5, 2024
4***
The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing - yes, and without those pesky pills! I believe so many cultures are more in tune with nature than us in the United States, and we have much much much to learn from them.
Yoshifumi Miyazaki writes a very simple yet profound book on how simply being in nature restores, heals, and calms the soul. He explains how to immerse all of your senses into forest therapy and watch as your stress, your blood pressure, your pulse, your cortisol, your anxiety, and your sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight) drastically reduce. He explains, too, how your immunity, your relaxation, and your feelings of calm, comfort, and balanced emotional states drastically increase. He gives the what, where, when, why, and how to achieve it, even if you live in urban areas (cause not everyone has a forest easily accessible to them).
Smell the wood. See the sunlight glistening through the leaves of the trees. Hear the birds and the rhythm of the wind. Touch the soil and the bark of the trees. Taste the flowers, the fresh air, and the herbs. Sit in a hammock and allow the woods to be the natural medicine that unravels the ball of stress and anxiety that keeps you in knots.
Miyazaki, too, explains the actual science behind it (though I would prefer much more here, hence the four stars), which he keeps very conversational rather than technical. He intersperses it, as well, with wonderful quotes from Williams Blake, Henry David Thoreau, Sei Shonagon, Japanese proverbs, Komorebi, and Rumi. The beautiful photos themselves already have a soothing effect.
In essence, take a hike. Take a walk in the woods. Take out those earbuds and listen to the nature around you rather than allowing technology to interrupts your ability to soothe. Man has lived in nature for 99.1% of our existence on earth, and it’s no wonder that getting back into its natural rhythm restores our brain patterns.
Miyazaki has definitely inspired me, and I hope he inspires you, too.
The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing - yes, and without those pesky pills! I believe so many cultures are more in tune with nature than us in the United States, and we have much much much to learn from them.
Yoshifumi Miyazaki writes a very simple yet profound book on how simply being in nature restores, heals, and calms the soul. He explains how to immerse all of your senses into forest therapy and watch as your stress, your blood pressure, your pulse, your cortisol, your anxiety, and your sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight) drastically reduce. He explains, too, how your immunity, your relaxation, and your feelings of calm, comfort, and balanced emotional states drastically increase. He gives the what, where, when, why, and how to achieve it, even if you live in urban areas (cause not everyone has a forest easily accessible to them).
Smell the wood. See the sunlight glistening through the leaves of the trees. Hear the birds and the rhythm of the wind. Touch the soil and the bark of the trees. Taste the flowers, the fresh air, and the herbs. Sit in a hammock and allow the woods to be the natural medicine that unravels the ball of stress and anxiety that keeps you in knots.
Miyazaki, too, explains the actual science behind it (though I would prefer much more here, hence the four stars), which he keeps very conversational rather than technical. He intersperses it, as well, with wonderful quotes from Williams Blake, Henry David Thoreau, Sei Shonagon, Japanese proverbs, Komorebi, and Rumi. The beautiful photos themselves already have a soothing effect.
In essence, take a hike. Take a walk in the woods. Take out those earbuds and listen to the nature around you rather than allowing technology to interrupts your ability to soothe. Man has lived in nature for 99.1% of our existence on earth, and it’s no wonder that getting back into its natural rhythm restores our brain patterns.
Miyazaki has definitely inspired me, and I hope he inspires you, too.
May 6, 2018
A true delight. A book about the simplest of concepts, forest bathing - as sun bathing means surrounding oneself in sunlight and sea bathing is getting into the ocean, immersing oneself in the sea, forest bathing is about being inside the forest, becoming one with the peace and sensual pleasures of the woodland, reducing blood pressure, reducing heart rate and stress hormones - but hopefully, mostly, taking great pleasure in being amongst the sights the sounds, the perfume, of the woods.
The chapters lead one from the origins and history of the concept, then into the actual practice of forest bathing, and bringing the forest closer to home. Then there’s a dash of the science that underlies our natural affinity with nature and the benefits to being out and about in the natural world. The information is given in small packages - words are few and simple and come well- wrapped in delightful images; like everything Japanese, the packaging is half the pleasure.
It’s not an instruction manual, a forest-bathing for dummies. It’s beautiful, first and foremost, and inspirational. It encourages the reader to get outdoors, into the woods, and breathe, relax, and simply ‘be’. A very beautiful book I’ve read several times already, - not cover to cover, just dipping in and out. I found it remarkably uplifting during my recent stays in hospital, when I couldn’t get out into nature as I’m accustomed to doing. This was a delightful ‘next best thing’ to the real thing. Refreshing, reviving; a constant joy
The chapters lead one from the origins and history of the concept, then into the actual practice of forest bathing, and bringing the forest closer to home. Then there’s a dash of the science that underlies our natural affinity with nature and the benefits to being out and about in the natural world. The information is given in small packages - words are few and simple and come well- wrapped in delightful images; like everything Japanese, the packaging is half the pleasure.
It’s not an instruction manual, a forest-bathing for dummies. It’s beautiful, first and foremost, and inspirational. It encourages the reader to get outdoors, into the woods, and breathe, relax, and simply ‘be’. A very beautiful book I’ve read several times already, - not cover to cover, just dipping in and out. I found it remarkably uplifting during my recent stays in hospital, when I couldn’t get out into nature as I’m accustomed to doing. This was a delightful ‘next best thing’ to the real thing. Refreshing, reviving; a constant joy
April 26, 2018
A book about the power of the trees/forest and how much we can benefit to live surround by those. I have an interest about the benefit of trees for health (physical and psychological) for a while now and this book could be a really good introduction for those who want to get an good tour of it all. I didn't learn much, but like I said, I already know a bunch of stuff, but the newcomers should learn a few things. The photographs are great and it has a good balance between informations, study/methodology, and goals/exercises. And it's not just about Japanese forest, the foundation of this book can be use or study worldwide in every type of forest.
June 28, 2018
Proč příroda snižuje stres? Jak jedna procházka denně ovlivní nás nervový systém? To nám vysvětluje japonská terapie lesem #shinrinyoku. Já měla japonský lesy dodnes zařazený v kategorii "sebevraždy", ale očividně se začali v Japonsku snažit, aby v lesích život spíš začínal, než končil. A co mě nejvíc překvapilo?
1. výsledky výzkumů lidí pravidelně navštěvujících les
2. kapitola o všímavé chůzi, rozvíjení intuice a zapojení všech našich smyslů 3.tipy na to, jak využít léčebné síly přírody a za pomoci stromů a zeleně zlepšit kvalitu života.
Knížku u nás vydalo nakladatelství Grada.
1. výsledky výzkumů lidí pravidelně navštěvujících les
2. kapitola o všímavé chůzi, rozvíjení intuice a zapojení všech našich smyslů 3.tipy na to, jak využít léčebné síly přírody a za pomoci stromů a zeleně zlepšit kvalitu života.
Knížku u nás vydalo nakladatelství Grada.
April 26, 2020
I loved this book because I've been doing this all my life. I grew up in a forest, but unfortunately do not live in one now. When "Safer at Home" restrictions are raised, I hope to travel to a training, maybe in Japan, to become a person who leads others in being soothed by forest therapy.
June 29, 2018
I love trees and walking in dappled shade; the varied green color tones and the scents of woodlands are soothing to me. This book confirms that forests are wonderful places to spend quality time through science and extensive experience in Japan where 69% of the country is covered in forests and the culture appreciates nature and trees.
May 22, 2025
Mikään ei taida rauhoittaa enemmän kun luonnossa oleminen ja oli mielenkiintosta lukea miten metsässä oleilu on näkynyt fysologissa mittauksissa. Muuten kirja oli pintapuolinen melkeen ku lapselle kirjotettu ja tuntui lähinnä Japanin markkinoinnilta, joka kyllä toimi :D haluun nyt matkustaa Japanin setripuumetsiä haistelemaan
July 19, 2019
Though I question the validity of some of the bold claims, overall a beautiful book and important reminder to connect with nature and protect it.
November 24, 2025
De Japanse kunst van het bosbaden - Yoshifumi Miyazaki
Start: donderdag 30 oktober 2025
Uit: maandag 24 november 2025
Genre: zelfhulp, gezondheid en welzijn & spiritualiteit
Pagina’s: 192
Review:
Ik heb het boek op een boekenmarkt gekocht. Vooral gekocht omdat ik het er allemaal mooi uit vond zien. Ik ben zelf ook al erg ervan overtuigd dat wandelen zo bizar goed voor ons zowel mentaal als lichamelijk is. Dus ik kon me wel vinden in dit boek. Vond het wel heel erg lang doorgaan steeds op hetzelfde. Dit had in een paar pagina’s alles al gezegd waar nu een boek van gemaakt is. Dus ik zou het boek niet aanraden. Maar dat het er mooi uitziet in opmaak, maakt het dan weer een beetje goed haha. Ik denk wel dat hier meer mee gedaan zou moeten worden in de gezondheidszorg. Verder uitzoeken hoe natuurlijke oplossingen zoveel gezondheidsvoordelen met zich mee kunnen brengen. En hoe we misschien wel eventuele dingen zouden kunnen voorkomen.
Quotes/gedachtes:
- Alles wijst erop dat ons lichaam het bos nog steeds als zijn natuurlijke omgeving beschouwt, wat een belangrijk geven is, omdat de bevolkingsdichtheid in steden en agglomeraties voortdurend blijft toenemen.
- In deze eeuw zijn stressgerelateerde ziektes een wereldwijd sociaal probleem geworden. Ongemerkt krijgen we te veel prikkels en raken we gestrest door de wereld die we zelf hebben gecreëerd. Dat vermindert onze weerstand tegen ziektes.
- Natuurtherapie is natuurlijk en niet invasief, en zet in op een vermogen dat ons lichaam al bezit: aanpassing aan de natuur.
- Niet alleen de bossen bevorderen ons welzijn. Er is aangetoond dat andere natuurlijke stimuli, zoals parken, bloemen, bonsaiboompjes en zelfs stukken hout stress kunnen verminderen, zodat een vorm van natuurtherapie binnen ieders bereik ligt, zoals ook al woon je in de stad.
- Door het leven in de moderne maatschappij verkeren we in een voortdurende stresstoestand.
- Natuurtherapie versterkt de natuurlijke weerstand van het lichaam.
- Natuurtherapie bevordert ontspanning en vergroot de weerstand tegen ziektes.
- Onze genen kunnen in een paar honderd jaar niet veranderen, dus wonen we in een moderne leefomgeving terwijl ons lichaam nog steeds is ingesteld op de natuur.
- Doordat ons lichaam inclusief onze genen is afgestemd op de natuur voelen we ons ontspannen als we daarmee in contact zijn.
- Gezond zijn is ook een proces; het is de manier waarop we leven.
- Onze lichamelijke functies zijn nog steeds aangepast aan de natuur. Daarom wordt ons sympathisch zenuwstelsel voortdurend overprikkeld en liggen onze stressniveaus regelmatig te hoog. Ons zenuwstelsel is onvoldoende in staat om zich te herstellen, mede doordat we te weinig slapen en ons niet voldoende kunnen ontspannen.
- Ook technologie is een constante stressfactor, omdat mensen daardoor minder tijd nemen om zich te ontspannen en om lichaam en geest rust te geven.
- Het parasympatische zenuwstelsel reguleert onze fysieke functies en zorgt voor rust en herstel.
- Onderzoek toont aan dat zelfs uit een raam kijken naar natuur heilzaam werkt.
- Als we in een bepaalde omgeving voelen dat ons ritme synchroon loopt met dat van die omgeving, voelen we ons tevreden en gesteund.
- Passief welzijn is gekoppeld aan onze basisbehoeften, zoals de noodzaak warm te blijven. Actief welzijn komt voort uit de voldoening die we voelen.
- 69 procent van de totale oppervlakte van het land bestaat uit bos.
- Bomen worden in Japan met respect behandeld en symboliseren de relatie van de mens in harmonie met de natuur.
- Contact met hout heeft een ontspannende werking op lichaam en geest.
- Onderzoek heeft aangetoond dat het contact met dieren ontspannen werkt.
- Uit onderzoek blijkt dat er een correlatie bestaat tussen activiteiten waar je plezier in hebt en de positieve effecten die ze op je lichaam hebben. Met andere woorden, hoe leuker je iets vindt, hoe meer baat je erbij hebt.
- Als het idee je aanspreekt werkt het waarschijnlijk ook.
- Het beoefenen van shirin-yoku komt in principe neer op twee uur of langer rustig door het bos wandelen. Je telefoon blijft daarbij uit, zodat je tijd en aandacht hebt om de omgeving in je op te nemen en in het moment te zijn.
- Shikan Shouyou beteken ‘niets dan rustig wandelen’, wat we zelden doen, maar buitengewoon goed voor ons is.
- Veel mensen leiden een zittend leven, ze zitten veel meer dan waar het lichaam op gebouwd is. Strekken is een prima manier om het lichaam wat beweging te geven. In de natuur activeer je lichaam en geest, en als je mindfuk strekt, breng je je bewustzijn naar je lichaam en leid je het weg van je gedachten. Zo kom je dichter bij de natuurlijke toestand van het lichaam.
- De fases van de maan veranderen voortdurend, wat ons herinnert aan het ritme van de natuur. Bovendien geven de sterren ons een gevoel van perspectief. Onderzoekers van de Universiteit van Californië hebben aangetoond dat een gevoel van ontzag onze aandacht wegleidt van onze persoonlijke problemen en bevordelijk is voor de samenwerking en het contact met anderen.
- De natuur bevordert de activiteit in het parasympatisch zenuwstelsel, waardoor het lichaam kan uitrusten en herstellen.
- ‘Kijk goed naar de natuur en u zult alles beter begrijpen.’ - Albert Einstein
- Kinderen die regelmatig in de natuur komen, vertonen gemiddeld meer zelfvertrouwen, probleemoplossend vermogen en motorische vaardigheden. Ze doen het ook beter op school.
- Als je ontspannen bent, zie je dingen in hun verband en sta je open voor nieuwe ideeën.
- De geur van natuurlijk gedroogd hout brengt de prefrontale cortex tot rust en heeft een ontspannende werking. Dit kan geïnterpreteerd worden als de terugkeer naar een natuurlijke toestand, waarbij het brein de permanente stresssituatie die voortkomt uit een kunstmatige omgeving, van zich afschudt.
- Het doel van de bonsai is van oudsher tweeledig: het geduldige en kunstige opkweken en het contemplatieve beschouwen van het resultaat.
- Het bezig zijn met planten en bloemen levert een positieve bijdrage aan je gezondheid en welzijn.
- Kamerplanten zuiveren ook de lucht die we inademen.
- Bloemenextracten, bijv van rozen en oranje bloesem, hebben een ontspannend effect, net als oliën die uit bomen worden gewonnen.
- Het gebruik van cederolie is al eeuwenoud. De warme houtgeur kalmeert lichaam en geest, geeft een heerlijk ontspannen gevoel en legt de basis voor een weldadig gevoel van vitaliteit en tevredenheid.
- Douglassparolie heeft een schone, frisse en houtachtige geur. De olie bevordert een positieve stemming en verbetert de concentratie. Hij wordt ook gebruikt om de huid te reinigen en de luchtwegen te openen.
- Eucalyptus heeft een kamferachtig pepermuntgeur en wordt gebruikt om de geest helder te maken en spanning te verminderen. De olie wordt ook gebruikt om de huid te reinigen en de luchtwegen te openen.
- Als het lichaam ontspannen is, neemt de hersenactiviteit af.
- Cortisol is een hormoon dat onder invloed van stress vrijkomt in de bijnier.
- Naturalkillercellen (NK-cellen) zijn een soort lymfocyten, witte bloedcellen die een centrale rol spelen in ons immuunsysteem. Ze vormen de voorhoede van het verdedigingssysteem van het lichaam en beschermen ons tegen infecties en tumoren. We weten dat de mate waarin deze cellen actief zijn, samenhangt met het stressniveau van het lichaam. Als de stress toeneemt, neemt de activiteit van deze cellen af en daarmee ook ons vermogen om infecties en tumorcellen te bestrijden.
- De bloeddruk daalt als we in het bos zijn en dit heeft meerdere positieve effecten die meerdere dagen aanhouden.
- Sierplanten hebben een ontspannend effect op jonge mensen en planten op school kunnen bijdragen aan het verlagen van het stressniveau van scholieren.
- Het kijken naar een boeket bloemen werkt ontspannend en en vermindert stress.
- Het inhaleren van lucht met aroma van rozen of oranjebloesem werkt ontspannend, prettig en natuurlijk gevoel.
- Het opsnuiven van de geur van natuurlijk gedroogd hout heeft een kalmerende werking op de activiteit in de prefrontale cortex.
- Ondanks alles is ons lichaam nog steeds aangepast aan de natuur. Ik geloof dat de natuur een aanzienlijke bijdrage kan leveren aan het ontlasten van de gezondheidszorg, waar ook ter wereld.
- ‘Het wonderlijke is dat we bomen kunnen zien en we ons er niet over verwonderen.’ - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Start: donderdag 30 oktober 2025
Uit: maandag 24 november 2025
Genre: zelfhulp, gezondheid en welzijn & spiritualiteit
Pagina’s: 192
Review:
Ik heb het boek op een boekenmarkt gekocht. Vooral gekocht omdat ik het er allemaal mooi uit vond zien. Ik ben zelf ook al erg ervan overtuigd dat wandelen zo bizar goed voor ons zowel mentaal als lichamelijk is. Dus ik kon me wel vinden in dit boek. Vond het wel heel erg lang doorgaan steeds op hetzelfde. Dit had in een paar pagina’s alles al gezegd waar nu een boek van gemaakt is. Dus ik zou het boek niet aanraden. Maar dat het er mooi uitziet in opmaak, maakt het dan weer een beetje goed haha. Ik denk wel dat hier meer mee gedaan zou moeten worden in de gezondheidszorg. Verder uitzoeken hoe natuurlijke oplossingen zoveel gezondheidsvoordelen met zich mee kunnen brengen. En hoe we misschien wel eventuele dingen zouden kunnen voorkomen.
Quotes/gedachtes:
- Alles wijst erop dat ons lichaam het bos nog steeds als zijn natuurlijke omgeving beschouwt, wat een belangrijk geven is, omdat de bevolkingsdichtheid in steden en agglomeraties voortdurend blijft toenemen.
- In deze eeuw zijn stressgerelateerde ziektes een wereldwijd sociaal probleem geworden. Ongemerkt krijgen we te veel prikkels en raken we gestrest door de wereld die we zelf hebben gecreëerd. Dat vermindert onze weerstand tegen ziektes.
- Natuurtherapie is natuurlijk en niet invasief, en zet in op een vermogen dat ons lichaam al bezit: aanpassing aan de natuur.
- Niet alleen de bossen bevorderen ons welzijn. Er is aangetoond dat andere natuurlijke stimuli, zoals parken, bloemen, bonsaiboompjes en zelfs stukken hout stress kunnen verminderen, zodat een vorm van natuurtherapie binnen ieders bereik ligt, zoals ook al woon je in de stad.
- Door het leven in de moderne maatschappij verkeren we in een voortdurende stresstoestand.
- Natuurtherapie versterkt de natuurlijke weerstand van het lichaam.
- Natuurtherapie bevordert ontspanning en vergroot de weerstand tegen ziektes.
- Onze genen kunnen in een paar honderd jaar niet veranderen, dus wonen we in een moderne leefomgeving terwijl ons lichaam nog steeds is ingesteld op de natuur.
- Doordat ons lichaam inclusief onze genen is afgestemd op de natuur voelen we ons ontspannen als we daarmee in contact zijn.
- Gezond zijn is ook een proces; het is de manier waarop we leven.
- Onze lichamelijke functies zijn nog steeds aangepast aan de natuur. Daarom wordt ons sympathisch zenuwstelsel voortdurend overprikkeld en liggen onze stressniveaus regelmatig te hoog. Ons zenuwstelsel is onvoldoende in staat om zich te herstellen, mede doordat we te weinig slapen en ons niet voldoende kunnen ontspannen.
- Ook technologie is een constante stressfactor, omdat mensen daardoor minder tijd nemen om zich te ontspannen en om lichaam en geest rust te geven.
- Het parasympatische zenuwstelsel reguleert onze fysieke functies en zorgt voor rust en herstel.
- Onderzoek toont aan dat zelfs uit een raam kijken naar natuur heilzaam werkt.
- Als we in een bepaalde omgeving voelen dat ons ritme synchroon loopt met dat van die omgeving, voelen we ons tevreden en gesteund.
- Passief welzijn is gekoppeld aan onze basisbehoeften, zoals de noodzaak warm te blijven. Actief welzijn komt voort uit de voldoening die we voelen.
- 69 procent van de totale oppervlakte van het land bestaat uit bos.
- Bomen worden in Japan met respect behandeld en symboliseren de relatie van de mens in harmonie met de natuur.
- Contact met hout heeft een ontspannende werking op lichaam en geest.
- Onderzoek heeft aangetoond dat het contact met dieren ontspannen werkt.
- Uit onderzoek blijkt dat er een correlatie bestaat tussen activiteiten waar je plezier in hebt en de positieve effecten die ze op je lichaam hebben. Met andere woorden, hoe leuker je iets vindt, hoe meer baat je erbij hebt.
- Als het idee je aanspreekt werkt het waarschijnlijk ook.
- Het beoefenen van shirin-yoku komt in principe neer op twee uur of langer rustig door het bos wandelen. Je telefoon blijft daarbij uit, zodat je tijd en aandacht hebt om de omgeving in je op te nemen en in het moment te zijn.
- Shikan Shouyou beteken ‘niets dan rustig wandelen’, wat we zelden doen, maar buitengewoon goed voor ons is.
- Veel mensen leiden een zittend leven, ze zitten veel meer dan waar het lichaam op gebouwd is. Strekken is een prima manier om het lichaam wat beweging te geven. In de natuur activeer je lichaam en geest, en als je mindfuk strekt, breng je je bewustzijn naar je lichaam en leid je het weg van je gedachten. Zo kom je dichter bij de natuurlijke toestand van het lichaam.
- De fases van de maan veranderen voortdurend, wat ons herinnert aan het ritme van de natuur. Bovendien geven de sterren ons een gevoel van perspectief. Onderzoekers van de Universiteit van Californië hebben aangetoond dat een gevoel van ontzag onze aandacht wegleidt van onze persoonlijke problemen en bevordelijk is voor de samenwerking en het contact met anderen.
- De natuur bevordert de activiteit in het parasympatisch zenuwstelsel, waardoor het lichaam kan uitrusten en herstellen.
- ‘Kijk goed naar de natuur en u zult alles beter begrijpen.’ - Albert Einstein
- Kinderen die regelmatig in de natuur komen, vertonen gemiddeld meer zelfvertrouwen, probleemoplossend vermogen en motorische vaardigheden. Ze doen het ook beter op school.
- Als je ontspannen bent, zie je dingen in hun verband en sta je open voor nieuwe ideeën.
- De geur van natuurlijk gedroogd hout brengt de prefrontale cortex tot rust en heeft een ontspannende werking. Dit kan geïnterpreteerd worden als de terugkeer naar een natuurlijke toestand, waarbij het brein de permanente stresssituatie die voortkomt uit een kunstmatige omgeving, van zich afschudt.
- Het doel van de bonsai is van oudsher tweeledig: het geduldige en kunstige opkweken en het contemplatieve beschouwen van het resultaat.
- Het bezig zijn met planten en bloemen levert een positieve bijdrage aan je gezondheid en welzijn.
- Kamerplanten zuiveren ook de lucht die we inademen.
- Bloemenextracten, bijv van rozen en oranje bloesem, hebben een ontspannend effect, net als oliën die uit bomen worden gewonnen.
- Het gebruik van cederolie is al eeuwenoud. De warme houtgeur kalmeert lichaam en geest, geeft een heerlijk ontspannen gevoel en legt de basis voor een weldadig gevoel van vitaliteit en tevredenheid.
- Douglassparolie heeft een schone, frisse en houtachtige geur. De olie bevordert een positieve stemming en verbetert de concentratie. Hij wordt ook gebruikt om de huid te reinigen en de luchtwegen te openen.
- Eucalyptus heeft een kamferachtig pepermuntgeur en wordt gebruikt om de geest helder te maken en spanning te verminderen. De olie wordt ook gebruikt om de huid te reinigen en de luchtwegen te openen.
- Als het lichaam ontspannen is, neemt de hersenactiviteit af.
- Cortisol is een hormoon dat onder invloed van stress vrijkomt in de bijnier.
- Naturalkillercellen (NK-cellen) zijn een soort lymfocyten, witte bloedcellen die een centrale rol spelen in ons immuunsysteem. Ze vormen de voorhoede van het verdedigingssysteem van het lichaam en beschermen ons tegen infecties en tumoren. We weten dat de mate waarin deze cellen actief zijn, samenhangt met het stressniveau van het lichaam. Als de stress toeneemt, neemt de activiteit van deze cellen af en daarmee ook ons vermogen om infecties en tumorcellen te bestrijden.
- De bloeddruk daalt als we in het bos zijn en dit heeft meerdere positieve effecten die meerdere dagen aanhouden.
- Sierplanten hebben een ontspannend effect op jonge mensen en planten op school kunnen bijdragen aan het verlagen van het stressniveau van scholieren.
- Het kijken naar een boeket bloemen werkt ontspannend en en vermindert stress.
- Het inhaleren van lucht met aroma van rozen of oranjebloesem werkt ontspannend, prettig en natuurlijk gevoel.
- Het opsnuiven van de geur van natuurlijk gedroogd hout heeft een kalmerende werking op de activiteit in de prefrontale cortex.
- Ondanks alles is ons lichaam nog steeds aangepast aan de natuur. Ik geloof dat de natuur een aanzienlijke bijdrage kan leveren aan het ontlasten van de gezondheidszorg, waar ook ter wereld.
- ‘Het wonderlijke is dat we bomen kunnen zien en we ons er niet over verwonderen.’ - Ralph Waldo Emerson
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2018
As a counsellor, I like this book because it acts as a reminder that simple things, such as a walk in the woods or a vase of flowers, can promote relaxation. More than that, it provides evidence for the calming value of nature and explains its impact on our body's physiology.
This is important because the idea of connecting to nature can feel a woefully inadequate response to stress. How many of us have felt fobbed off when it is suggested that we "go for a walk" at a moment of emotional turmoil?
Of course, the truth is that nature might not be able to fix everything. Nevertheless, having read this book, I am much more likely to consider taking a walk in my local park next time I feel stressed. Why? Because now I understand, and feel confidence in, how making this choice could help my body to calm down.
I think this book will encourage me to think more about the need to take breaks from the trappings of our modern world too. Time away from technology. Time away from the city.
The final thing I will take from this book is the need to bring more nature into our cities. This book has given me a renewed sense of appreciation for the community gardens in the place I call home. A greater sense of gratitude for those who, in various roles, advocate for the need for time, and space, to appreciate the natural world within our urban environments. It has motivated me to proactively support such projects.
It is a lot to take from a book and, for this reason, I should perhaps have awarded it four stars - it is definitely a book that, for me, sits firmly in the middle of three and four stars. The reason, in the end, I went for three stars is that I was left with so many questions. Do we experience the same benefits when we walk along the coast? How do the relaxation benefits of being in the forest compare with the stress-relieving impact of anxiety medications?
It is not that a book should address everything. But, in the end, this book felt more like the summary of a research career or a description of the emergence of Shinrin Yoku as an academic discipline. This is not a bad thing. But, by the end, I wanted a little more than this.
The book was lovely though and I enjoyed what was presented. The author's account of his early career was as heart-warming as it was inspirational. It was fascinating to read about the way in which this area of interest found a home within academia. And the research presented in the final part of the book was clear and informative. There is also beautiful photography throughout. Mmm, I may yet return and upgrade this to four stars ...
This is important because the idea of connecting to nature can feel a woefully inadequate response to stress. How many of us have felt fobbed off when it is suggested that we "go for a walk" at a moment of emotional turmoil?
Of course, the truth is that nature might not be able to fix everything. Nevertheless, having read this book, I am much more likely to consider taking a walk in my local park next time I feel stressed. Why? Because now I understand, and feel confidence in, how making this choice could help my body to calm down.
I think this book will encourage me to think more about the need to take breaks from the trappings of our modern world too. Time away from technology. Time away from the city.
The final thing I will take from this book is the need to bring more nature into our cities. This book has given me a renewed sense of appreciation for the community gardens in the place I call home. A greater sense of gratitude for those who, in various roles, advocate for the need for time, and space, to appreciate the natural world within our urban environments. It has motivated me to proactively support such projects.
It is a lot to take from a book and, for this reason, I should perhaps have awarded it four stars - it is definitely a book that, for me, sits firmly in the middle of three and four stars. The reason, in the end, I went for three stars is that I was left with so many questions. Do we experience the same benefits when we walk along the coast? How do the relaxation benefits of being in the forest compare with the stress-relieving impact of anxiety medications?
It is not that a book should address everything. But, in the end, this book felt more like the summary of a research career or a description of the emergence of Shinrin Yoku as an academic discipline. This is not a bad thing. But, by the end, I wanted a little more than this.
The book was lovely though and I enjoyed what was presented. The author's account of his early career was as heart-warming as it was inspirational. It was fascinating to read about the way in which this area of interest found a home within academia. And the research presented in the final part of the book was clear and informative. There is also beautiful photography throughout. Mmm, I may yet return and upgrade this to four stars ...
August 8, 2020
Forest bathing - what on earth is forest bathing? It's the Japanese practice of spending time in forests and woods.
I have always found being in and around forests and woodland areas calming and peaceful - and now I understand why.
I love the idea of bringing the forest indoors, by using certain essential oils, flowers, and bonsai trees. I will certainly be trying these!
I have always found being in and around forests and woodland areas calming and peaceful - and now I understand why.
I love the idea of bringing the forest indoors, by using certain essential oils, flowers, and bonsai trees. I will certainly be trying these!
August 1, 2024
Okay, so this wasn’t very good. This guy opens with “I was never a very good student and fell into academia due to my lack of interest in finding other jobs” and passes through some brief and mildly interesting discussion of Japanese vs western cultural differences before quickly progressing to “research has shown relaxing is good for your health, therefore that research proves trees are inherently good for you because obviously trees are inherently relaxing.” He successfully conveys that relaxation has positive effects on long-term health outcomes, but his assertions about nature therapy being particularly effective are ultimately unconvincing because he treats them as given. There is an entire chapter that covers this man’s research on this topic, and he still fails to establish anything other than that relaxing activities relax you. Somehow, that doesn’t seem groundbreaking enough to write a pop science/philosophy book about. (Many of the experiments had sample sets of less than 25 people, which doesn’t help.)
I believe him that taking walks in the woods is good for you because relaxing is good for you, but come on, man. Put some effort into your argument. This concept did not need an entire book to explain.
This book literally took me less than two hours to read. The page count is massively inflated by an enormous amounts of white space, flower drawings, and tree pictures. Many pages have no text, and the ones that do are rarely filled up.
Verdict: two stars. Don’t bother.
I believe him that taking walks in the woods is good for you because relaxing is good for you, but come on, man. Put some effort into your argument. This concept did not need an entire book to explain.
This book literally took me less than two hours to read. The page count is massively inflated by an enormous amounts of white space, flower drawings, and tree pictures. Many pages have no text, and the ones that do are rarely filled up.
Verdict: two stars. Don’t bother.
September 21, 2020
Frankly the statement in the very beginning ‘Intuitively, we understand that the natural world makes us feel relaxed’- was the best insight. the book So repetitive that feels like I’ve already got a phd myself in definitions of sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems after reading it. Some of the statements are very bald and lack a validation (in my humble opinion). Not quite sure if the language was so poor because of the bad translation or because it was just written this way.
Nevertheless, a super nice reminder to spend more time in the nature and observe both the environment and ourselves. Very nice pictures :) made me feel nostalgic for Japanese nature but from all the places somehow made me want to go back for a stroll in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Goeyn park the most :))))
Nevertheless, a super nice reminder to spend more time in the nature and observe both the environment and ourselves. Very nice pictures :) made me feel nostalgic for Japanese nature but from all the places somehow made me want to go back for a stroll in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Goeyn park the most :))))
October 16, 2018
A quick read if you are interested in learning more about the subject. It's a bit repetitive, but it gives a good overview about what shinrin yoku is all about.
January 7, 2024
Un libro relajante cuya presentación no hará más que confirmar su teoría. Agradable a la vista y al tacto, de lectura liviana y rápida. Recomendado.
May 4, 2018
For as long as I can remember, I referred to any walk in the woods as “hiking.” I supposed to other people hiking refers to strenuous ascents and descents over mountains and cliffs. I believe it was in 2017 when I came across a meme on Instagram explaining that there’s a Japanese practice of walking through nature, particularly a forest, and soaking every bit of stimuli in which was called “shinrin-yoku.”
As a newly credentialed yoga teacher and still writer-at-large, I was immediately curious when I saw Yoshifumi Miyazaki’s book, “Shinrin-Yoku: The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing” on NetGalley’s catalog to review.
The word shinrin-yoku was coined in 1982 by Tomohide Akiyama, a forest worker who wanted to increase the number of visitors to Japan’s park systems. He invented this creative word shinrin-yoku which is translated as “forest bathing” and it worked. More people began going to their parks.
To get the best understanding of why the park visits were important, one has to look beyond the marketing and promotions of Japan’s park system and the calculating tally of visitors. It was intuitive to them that being in the forest, feeling the ground under their feet, listening to the birds, and smelling the deep fragrances of the earth improved their health.
In 1990, experiments began which measured the stress hormone cortisol of people as they experienced the forests. Various experiments and teams have started and stopped or started and drew the conclusions possible that day’s technology; but now there are modern 2018 scientists digging into the research of shinrin-yoku and its benefits.
The scientists plainly state that shinrin-yoku is not in itself a “medicinal cure.” It’s a preventative treatment that can keep stress-related illnesses at bay which alleviates the strain on medical services.
The author, Yoshifumi Miyazaki wants the term “forest therapy” to be used when referencing the scientific studies of shinrin-yoku. The book is filled with gorgeous photos and has a coffee table book style to the page design utilizing a lot of white space. Miyazaki incorporates quotes and lines of poetry (always something I love) pertinent to nature.
Practitioners and believers of Chinese feng shui will find a lot of Miyazaki’s advice relative to theirs. Bring the outdoors inside. Utilize what’s available whether it’s a park nearby or your backyard garden or a Bonzai tree. Yoga also unites the universe’s natural elements with humanity through multiple ways: poses corresponding to five sacred elements, chakra correspondences, the five koshas, and mudras just to illustrate a few examples.
“Shinrin-Yoku: The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing” includes diagrams to accompany Miyazaki’s text. Stress > leads a seeker to the forest > there’s a physiological reaction where the immune system gets a boost > (subjects may have differing outcomes) > Illness prevention > which would reduce the impact on health services. Miyazaki calls for sustainability due to the impact of urbanization. He states that it’s not a city versus nature battle: it’s a matter of human beings requiring exposure to elements that city’s dominate. He lists many contributing side effects to urbanization such as workload demands that are excessive, inability to get enough restful sleep, and constant over-stimulation leading to increases in serious health conditions. The book lays out the science of the biology and physiology in easy to understand language.
The message isn’t prosaic “Do it and you’ll feel better” mentality. The author gives clear conclusions to the health benefits.
If you are familiar with tree lore of the Celts, you will appreciate the section, “The Significance of Trees in Japan,” which breaks down the importance of five tree varieties: cedar, kadomatsu, bamboo, cherry blossom, and bonsai.
Chapter three dives into a huge offering of suggestive practices so that any reader would be able to find something that they are capable of doing. There are samples of meditation to do among those suggestions. There are tips on aromatherapy and the use of essential oils with notes on the chemistry and benefits of tree oils.
Even if you don’t think practices like yoga are “your thing” the basic foundation that fresh air and time unplugged from machines is good for you is something everyone can understand. If you are a fan of yoga, aromatherapy, stress relief programs, and practical ways to enjoy nature at home, this book gets my highest recommendation.
As a newly credentialed yoga teacher and still writer-at-large, I was immediately curious when I saw Yoshifumi Miyazaki’s book, “Shinrin-Yoku: The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing” on NetGalley’s catalog to review.
The word shinrin-yoku was coined in 1982 by Tomohide Akiyama, a forest worker who wanted to increase the number of visitors to Japan’s park systems. He invented this creative word shinrin-yoku which is translated as “forest bathing” and it worked. More people began going to their parks.
To get the best understanding of why the park visits were important, one has to look beyond the marketing and promotions of Japan’s park system and the calculating tally of visitors. It was intuitive to them that being in the forest, feeling the ground under their feet, listening to the birds, and smelling the deep fragrances of the earth improved their health.
In 1990, experiments began which measured the stress hormone cortisol of people as they experienced the forests. Various experiments and teams have started and stopped or started and drew the conclusions possible that day’s technology; but now there are modern 2018 scientists digging into the research of shinrin-yoku and its benefits.
The scientists plainly state that shinrin-yoku is not in itself a “medicinal cure.” It’s a preventative treatment that can keep stress-related illnesses at bay which alleviates the strain on medical services.
The author, Yoshifumi Miyazaki wants the term “forest therapy” to be used when referencing the scientific studies of shinrin-yoku. The book is filled with gorgeous photos and has a coffee table book style to the page design utilizing a lot of white space. Miyazaki incorporates quotes and lines of poetry (always something I love) pertinent to nature.
Practitioners and believers of Chinese feng shui will find a lot of Miyazaki’s advice relative to theirs. Bring the outdoors inside. Utilize what’s available whether it’s a park nearby or your backyard garden or a Bonzai tree. Yoga also unites the universe’s natural elements with humanity through multiple ways: poses corresponding to five sacred elements, chakra correspondences, the five koshas, and mudras just to illustrate a few examples.
“Shinrin-Yoku: The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing” includes diagrams to accompany Miyazaki’s text. Stress > leads a seeker to the forest > there’s a physiological reaction where the immune system gets a boost > (subjects may have differing outcomes) > Illness prevention > which would reduce the impact on health services. Miyazaki calls for sustainability due to the impact of urbanization. He states that it’s not a city versus nature battle: it’s a matter of human beings requiring exposure to elements that city’s dominate. He lists many contributing side effects to urbanization such as workload demands that are excessive, inability to get enough restful sleep, and constant over-stimulation leading to increases in serious health conditions. The book lays out the science of the biology and physiology in easy to understand language.
The message isn’t prosaic “Do it and you’ll feel better” mentality. The author gives clear conclusions to the health benefits.
If you are familiar with tree lore of the Celts, you will appreciate the section, “The Significance of Trees in Japan,” which breaks down the importance of five tree varieties: cedar, kadomatsu, bamboo, cherry blossom, and bonsai.
Chapter three dives into a huge offering of suggestive practices so that any reader would be able to find something that they are capable of doing. There are samples of meditation to do among those suggestions. There are tips on aromatherapy and the use of essential oils with notes on the chemistry and benefits of tree oils.
Even if you don’t think practices like yoga are “your thing” the basic foundation that fresh air and time unplugged from machines is good for you is something everyone can understand. If you are a fan of yoga, aromatherapy, stress relief programs, and practical ways to enjoy nature at home, this book gets my highest recommendation.
October 21, 2018
[Review about both Shinrin Yoku: The Art of Japanese Forest Bathing by Miyazaki and Forest Bathing by Li] I recently saw an article in the Guardian: "Doctors in Shetland are to start prescribing birdwatching, rambling and beach walks in the Atlantic winds to help treat chronic and debilitating illnesses for the first time." These illnesses include ailments such as mental illness, diabetes, heart disease, stress and other conditions. I was immediately reminded of the Japanese practice of forest bathing and bought both books.
First, I was surprised that there were many books on the subject! I chose these two because they were available on audible. So what to say?
Both books go over almost the same ground but if I would recommend Miyazaki's over Li's, mainly because his introduction to Japanese culture in terms of nature and aesthetics is much more detailed and evocative.
When I came back to California after 25 years in Japan, one of the biggest impressions I had was of being totally cut off from nature. Isn't that strange since California truly is blessed with beautiful mountains and beaches. There are wonderful hiking trails everywhere and it is basically sunny every single day--so you would think I would feel more embedded in nature here. Well, nothing could be further from the truth. Reading these books (Li is based in Tokyo and Miyazaki in Chiba), I realized just how much I was missing Japanese culture and seasonal activities. The calendar for me used to move from plum to peach to cherry blossoms and then ajisai and lotus, to be followed by the moon and then the glorious maple leaves... finally the end of year celebrations in which nature also plays a role. Nature is a part of life.
These things were all done communally--in families and with friends. To go cherry blossom viewing and maple leaf hunting and moon viewing... people always talk about the weather and it is even how you begin letters to people--with a seasonal greeting. In poetry and well, in all literature, nature plays a major role...
Coming back--despite being surrounded by the splendors of California-- I feel abandoned.
Both books have excellent introductions to the role of nature in Japanese culture and life. Like I said, Miyazaki is a bit better. But Li's book is more beautifully published and is nice to hold in your hands.
Li's book is also very nice on EO Wilson's biophilia.
Japan is covered in forests. But not a lot of pristine untouched forest. And both books seem to conflate the effects of being in any forest with having houseplants or using cedar oil diffusers. That being embedded in nature makes us feel better seems to be a fact. But I loved -and highly recommend-- The Hidden Life of Trees to find out the way different kinds of forests (untouched and wild versus forests made for lumber, beech versus oaks, as well as the entire ecosystem, including mushrooms)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
First, I was surprised that there were many books on the subject! I chose these two because they were available on audible. So what to say?
Both books go over almost the same ground but if I would recommend Miyazaki's over Li's, mainly because his introduction to Japanese culture in terms of nature and aesthetics is much more detailed and evocative.
When I came back to California after 25 years in Japan, one of the biggest impressions I had was of being totally cut off from nature. Isn't that strange since California truly is blessed with beautiful mountains and beaches. There are wonderful hiking trails everywhere and it is basically sunny every single day--so you would think I would feel more embedded in nature here. Well, nothing could be further from the truth. Reading these books (Li is based in Tokyo and Miyazaki in Chiba), I realized just how much I was missing Japanese culture and seasonal activities. The calendar for me used to move from plum to peach to cherry blossoms and then ajisai and lotus, to be followed by the moon and then the glorious maple leaves... finally the end of year celebrations in which nature also plays a role. Nature is a part of life.
These things were all done communally--in families and with friends. To go cherry blossom viewing and maple leaf hunting and moon viewing... people always talk about the weather and it is even how you begin letters to people--with a seasonal greeting. In poetry and well, in all literature, nature plays a major role...
Coming back--despite being surrounded by the splendors of California-- I feel abandoned.
Both books have excellent introductions to the role of nature in Japanese culture and life. Like I said, Miyazaki is a bit better. But Li's book is more beautifully published and is nice to hold in your hands.
Li's book is also very nice on EO Wilson's biophilia.
Japan is covered in forests. But not a lot of pristine untouched forest. And both books seem to conflate the effects of being in any forest with having houseplants or using cedar oil diffusers. That being embedded in nature makes us feel better seems to be a fact. But I loved -and highly recommend-- The Hidden Life of Trees to find out the way different kinds of forests (untouched and wild versus forests made for lumber, beech versus oaks, as well as the entire ecosystem, including mushrooms)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
May 11, 2018
This neat little book is based around a simple concept: we evolved in nature, and stepping back into nature--literally, through the concept of "forest bathing"--can help alleviate some of the stress of modern urban life. On the surface it seems a little obvious; anyone who enjoys camping, gardening, or even walking in the park can tell you that those hobbies help them relax. Here, though, the author presents the research he and his colleagues conducted into what exactly happens in the body when we take a moment to appreciate the natural world.
From the beginning, I already felt drawn into the concept. Just looking at the beautiful photographs of Japanese forests helped me escape my office break room for a few minutes. Living in a desert, I also appreciated the alternatives for people who can't get away to the forest on a regular basis: bonsai, flower arranging, or even essential oils, to name just a few. (Other resources on forest bathing do mention that the specifics of the landscape are less important than getting outdoors, but I don't recall that in this book.) There is a brief section on stretches and physical activity to help get the most out of forest bathing.
Unfortunately, I can't decide if this book covered too much or too little. Many of the concepts felt overdone at times, with certain statistics repeated within one or two pages of each other. On the flip side, the researcher tackles an almost dizzying array of topics, including how to use certain essential oils, the significance of different kinds of wood, and an overview of forest bathing retreats around Japan. I also found the research to be uneven: while some studies were very thoughtfully designed and executed, it seemed like the author exaggerated the implications of others.
This idea is just gaining traction with American audiences, but I think it's a valuable one. We could all use a little more time in nature, and if this book helps inspire someone to do so, I'm glad for it. This book is a pleasant, if ambitious, introduction to forest bathing loaded with beautiful photographs, scientific research, and a wide range of options for those of us who are ready to dive in.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
From the beginning, I already felt drawn into the concept. Just looking at the beautiful photographs of Japanese forests helped me escape my office break room for a few minutes. Living in a desert, I also appreciated the alternatives for people who can't get away to the forest on a regular basis: bonsai, flower arranging, or even essential oils, to name just a few. (Other resources on forest bathing do mention that the specifics of the landscape are less important than getting outdoors, but I don't recall that in this book.) There is a brief section on stretches and physical activity to help get the most out of forest bathing.
Unfortunately, I can't decide if this book covered too much or too little. Many of the concepts felt overdone at times, with certain statistics repeated within one or two pages of each other. On the flip side, the researcher tackles an almost dizzying array of topics, including how to use certain essential oils, the significance of different kinds of wood, and an overview of forest bathing retreats around Japan. I also found the research to be uneven: while some studies were very thoughtfully designed and executed, it seemed like the author exaggerated the implications of others.
This idea is just gaining traction with American audiences, but I think it's a valuable one. We could all use a little more time in nature, and if this book helps inspire someone to do so, I'm glad for it. This book is a pleasant, if ambitious, introduction to forest bathing loaded with beautiful photographs, scientific research, and a wide range of options for those of us who are ready to dive in.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2021
I enjoyed this book, and I appreciate the author's effort to put some real science behind the idea that we should spend more time in nature. I definitely felt more inspired to spend time outside every day, as well as bring more of nature into my home.
That said, I think way more work needed to be put into the science section if the point of the book is to argue the benefits of "forest therapy" based on scientific evidence. I am not a research scientist, so I don't presume to know everything about experiment set-up, but I did dabble a bit in A/B testing as a product manager for a while, and my alarm bells were ringing as I read through some of the experiments. Either the author oversimplified the experiment set-up descriptions, or the experiments themselves seemed way less robust than they should have been.
For example, to test whether an urban park helped relax people, they took 18 male university students and had them walk around for 20 minutes each in Shinjuku Gyoen park and around Shinjuku Station. Based on how they measure stress in their experiments, they determined that walking in an urban park is relaxing. Okay, sure. Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest stations in the entire world. Basically anything would have been more relaxing. Why not look at several different-sized parks? Or include other, quieter parts of Shinjuku, like a quiet boutique shopping street or a residential street? If we're arguing that it's the plants and such that are the reason for the relaxation, how much more relaxing is the park than a quiet urban area?
Some of the experiments in the book are more robust than this and discuss some really interesting physiological effects, but the experiments like the one I described above really detract from the credibility of the author's research, in my opinion.
Another assertion in the book is that using essential oils that smell like nature (e.g. wood, flowers, etc.) relaxes the body, so long as the person likes the smell. This argument seems a little silly. If smelling hinoki or rose oil relieves stress, but only if you like the smell of those oils, then I think the conclusion is that smelling pleasant smells relaxes you, not that smelling pleasant nature smells relaxes you.
That said, I think way more work needed to be put into the science section if the point of the book is to argue the benefits of "forest therapy" based on scientific evidence. I am not a research scientist, so I don't presume to know everything about experiment set-up, but I did dabble a bit in A/B testing as a product manager for a while, and my alarm bells were ringing as I read through some of the experiments. Either the author oversimplified the experiment set-up descriptions, or the experiments themselves seemed way less robust than they should have been.
For example, to test whether an urban park helped relax people, they took 18 male university students and had them walk around for 20 minutes each in Shinjuku Gyoen park and around Shinjuku Station. Based on how they measure stress in their experiments, they determined that walking in an urban park is relaxing. Okay, sure. Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest stations in the entire world. Basically anything would have been more relaxing. Why not look at several different-sized parks? Or include other, quieter parts of Shinjuku, like a quiet boutique shopping street or a residential street? If we're arguing that it's the plants and such that are the reason for the relaxation, how much more relaxing is the park than a quiet urban area?
Some of the experiments in the book are more robust than this and discuss some really interesting physiological effects, but the experiments like the one I described above really detract from the credibility of the author's research, in my opinion.
Another assertion in the book is that using essential oils that smell like nature (e.g. wood, flowers, etc.) relaxes the body, so long as the person likes the smell. This argument seems a little silly. If smelling hinoki or rose oil relieves stress, but only if you like the smell of those oils, then I think the conclusion is that smelling pleasant smells relaxes you, not that smelling pleasant nature smells relaxes you.
November 30, 2025
This book was a needed break from this stressful school year. This is a non-fiction book about the japanese science and art known as Shinrin Yoku, or forest bathing. The book goes into great detail about the practice, how you can use it in daily life, where to find sites hosting it, and what benefits you may gain from it. My biggest love for this book has to come from the incredibly serene and calming nature this book exudes. The images of nature and various quotes that this contains helps me destress from daily life and ground myself, and it also makes it easier to read for those who are less literate (until it starts using scientific terms). The topic is also very interesting to me, as it mixes two of my loves together, being nature and Japan. However, it should be noted that I got this book at a library, and I'm glad I did because I probably would've been a bit disappointed had I bought it instead. This is because this book is essentially a giant advertisement for Shinrin Yoku, one that I can't even fall for because most Shinrin Yoku sites are in Japan (though I do visit there every summer). All information in this book, besides the parts specifically for Shinrin Yoku, are common knowledge to most people, like "nature, indoor plants, and essential oils are very relaxing" and "being relaxed boosts your immune system" (these are just paraphrases). It's clear that they put a lot of scientific rigor in the experiments, but most of the information just came off like that, though I will admit I did enjoy learning about how essential oils can clear your nasals and how touching wood is relaxing. I give this book an 8/10, and the pretty images are doing a lot of heavy lifting here.
December 3, 2018
Mostly, I read this for the pictures.
They're beautiful.
I think maybe if you're feeling at odds and can't seem to get a hold of who you are and where you're going but aren't to the point where your therapist is suggesting switching meds, then Shinrin Yoku could be helpful?
This book looks at the restorative aspects of spending time in nature. Maybe because I live in Colorado and that's all we do here, I was already pretty familiar with a lot of the information in here.
I think perhaps the point is to present this not-new-information in a more scientific manner so that doctors remember to tell their patients to take their pills, drink plenty of water, don't self-medicate, and take walks in forests. I'm not sure about that, though. I had a really hard time figuring out who is to benefit from these forest bathing studies.
It may sound like I'm poo-pooing the notion of spending time outdoors for the sake of your mental health. I assure you, that is not what I'm trying to do. I was just puzzled at how the information collected by the author and his colleagues warranted an entire book rather than just a white paper for the health and wellness community. Studies are shared then information is repeated and I'm not sure who the intended audience is. I admit, after the 1/3 mark, I skimmed the rest of my way through.
Also, perhaps it should be noted that this is probably a more useful book for people who have access to nature. For those who can't get out to woods or the beach or a park, this probably seems a bit pointless.
Again, this information could be super useful to someone but, for me, it was the pictures I enjoyed.
They're beautiful.
I think maybe if you're feeling at odds and can't seem to get a hold of who you are and where you're going but aren't to the point where your therapist is suggesting switching meds, then Shinrin Yoku could be helpful?
This book looks at the restorative aspects of spending time in nature. Maybe because I live in Colorado and that's all we do here, I was already pretty familiar with a lot of the information in here.
I think perhaps the point is to present this not-new-information in a more scientific manner so that doctors remember to tell their patients to take their pills, drink plenty of water, don't self-medicate, and take walks in forests. I'm not sure about that, though. I had a really hard time figuring out who is to benefit from these forest bathing studies.
It may sound like I'm poo-pooing the notion of spending time outdoors for the sake of your mental health. I assure you, that is not what I'm trying to do. I was just puzzled at how the information collected by the author and his colleagues warranted an entire book rather than just a white paper for the health and wellness community. Studies are shared then information is repeated and I'm not sure who the intended audience is. I admit, after the 1/3 mark, I skimmed the rest of my way through.
Also, perhaps it should be noted that this is probably a more useful book for people who have access to nature. For those who can't get out to woods or the beach or a park, this probably seems a bit pointless.
Again, this information could be super useful to someone but, for me, it was the pictures I enjoyed.
November 23, 2023
This quick and enjoyable read on the benefits of Forest Medicine to human health was a valuable addition to my current practice of Forest Bathing. I particularly liked the section on using woodland scents and even natural wood fragments as part of relaxation. Included is mention of various woods and centres where Forest Medicine research is being conducted and treatments are being offered. Overall, it deepens my reasons to visit Japan, in addition to the allure of its culture and highly forested land (69% of Japan's total land mass is forested, in comparison to just 15% in the United Kingdom, and in the 20s for the United States). He makes the point that by 2050, most of the world's population will live in Urban Spaces (66%), which generally lack green spaces, where the mind and body can recharge and relax. Therefore, it is crucial that Forest Medicine is incorporated into the healthcare systems, and into the city infrastructure agenda for future developments. It helps if the general consumer, voter, and publican, is aware and well informed on this, so as to seek, request, and demand more green spaces in cities, and for the country to overall value its forest: land ratio.
October 23, 2019
I stumbled on this book in a small shop in Boston's North End and it looked appealing. It's a beautifully presented book meant for a general reader just learning about Japanese forest bathing. There are photographs of trees overlain with quotations from writers such as Rumi and Kahlil Gibran. And the quickly read text lays out the psychological and physiological benefits of taking time to slowly walk through or sit within a forest ... as well as other easier for many connections with the natural world through everything from bonsai to aromatherapy. This would make a lovely gift book, and it has inspired me to get out to my local forest preserve to enjoy the fall colors. Who knew that time spent doing so could lower blood pressure and boost immunity? The final chapter outlines the research studies that support the claims made by the author about the benefits of this therapy. As this field of study is at it's very beginning, it might be something young people consider pursuing. Oh, and definitely ... let's all plant some trees. Can't have too many!
August 21, 2020
Who would have know that this book sees the future?
For those stay faithful by staying at home, this book is really recommended! I even feel calm seeing the pictures and simplicity of the sentences.
I love trees. Due to my work, I was able to visit nature, mostly eat forests and spoke to local people and enjoyed their knowledge and stories about their forests.
I suppose that got me through laborous days as an environment journalists. Of course, there were setbacks, but I was always felt 'home' with the trees and water.
I am urban girl with the longing of nature dweller.
Unfortunately, there's not much left in my city and when I read this book, I get why these greens are so important. Not just for making out, people please.... But, it helps to reduce blood pressures and increases natural killers.
Fear not! There are other ways to do forest bathing like......
No spoilers! This book is collectible so you can come back again just in case you need inspiration to healing.
Happy reading, good people!
For those stay faithful by staying at home, this book is really recommended! I even feel calm seeing the pictures and simplicity of the sentences.
I love trees. Due to my work, I was able to visit nature, mostly eat forests and spoke to local people and enjoyed their knowledge and stories about their forests.
I suppose that got me through laborous days as an environment journalists. Of course, there were setbacks, but I was always felt 'home' with the trees and water.
I am urban girl with the longing of nature dweller.
Unfortunately, there's not much left in my city and when I read this book, I get why these greens are so important. Not just for making out, people please.... But, it helps to reduce blood pressures and increases natural killers.
Fear not! There are other ways to do forest bathing like......
No spoilers! This book is collectible so you can come back again just in case you need inspiration to healing.
Happy reading, good people!
May 15, 2018
Shinrin Yoku, by Yoshifumi Miyazaki, delves into the scientific research behind forest therapy, or forest bathing. Forest bathing is “the Japanese practice of seeking a deep and meditative connection with nature.” The author has been a forest researcher for many years; he presents a very comprehensive study of forest therapy, from all the different ways we can practice forest therapy and incorporate it in our lives, to all the scientific research performed to back up the results of forest therapy.
This book has beautiful pictures that inspire you to get out immediately and go explore nature. While I enjoyed the book as a whole, I would've liked to see more on how we can use forest bathing in our daily lives. All the scientific studies were interesting, but they weren't very relevant to the general reader; they would've fit in better in a scientific journal.
(I received an advance copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)
This book has beautiful pictures that inspire you to get out immediately and go explore nature. While I enjoyed the book as a whole, I would've liked to see more on how we can use forest bathing in our daily lives. All the scientific studies were interesting, but they weren't very relevant to the general reader; they would've fit in better in a scientific journal.
(I received an advance copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.)
October 29, 2018
Forest-bathing. Sounds like something a hippy would do, I hear you say. I’m not going to lie that I had those initial prejudices too. Although if you know me, you’ll know that I’m very interested in how nature can help our health. I love aromatherapy oils and all that sort of thing. So I thought why not?
I really enjoyed this book. Well I’d say it’s more of a guide to be honest; a guide to improving our relationship with nature and how we can protect the trees that give so much to us. We often forget that.
I love the way the book is set out into four easy-to-read sections, from the science behind the forest-bathing, and I mean pretty in-depth science with technical words, but not to the point that you can’t understand. To then how we can practice it ourselves, inside and outside. Then most importantly, how we as a planet can protect the trees. It really does have everything you’d ever need to know on the subject.
I really enjoyed this book. Well I’d say it’s more of a guide to be honest; a guide to improving our relationship with nature and how we can protect the trees that give so much to us. We often forget that.
I love the way the book is set out into four easy-to-read sections, from the science behind the forest-bathing, and I mean pretty in-depth science with technical words, but not to the point that you can’t understand. To then how we can practice it ourselves, inside and outside. Then most importantly, how we as a planet can protect the trees. It really does have everything you’d ever need to know on the subject.
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