Shinrin Yoku, Japanese forest bath or forest therapy appeared in Japan in the 1980s. The way of life of its inhabitants, far removed from nature, generated stress, anxiety, muscular pains… the diseases of the 20th century, caused by technology. They turned to Buddhist ancestral therapies, mindfulness and Mother Nature to find a way to maintain health, not only physically, but mentally and emotionally.
What is Shinrin Yoku?
Shinrin Yoku in japanese literally means bath and forest , hence its translation into our language. But it is not a literal bath, that is, it is not immersed in liquids, but in the forest environment.
Through different techniques, the benefits of nature are appreciated through the senses… we perceive the smells of the flowers, the variety of colors with our sight, the different textures with our touch, the sound of the branches rustling, and we taste the fruits that nature provides us with.
In a forest bath, a multitude of tools can be used depending on the person or group, and the environment, but what is common to all Shinrin Yoku experiences is mindfulness during the activity.
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Shinrin yoku benefits it brings:
- Relaxation and better sleep quality
- Stress and anxiety reduction
- Feeling of well-being
- Improved immune system
- Promotes creativity and learning
A Shinrin Yoku is for everyone, especially for you if you:
- You lead a fast-paced life separated from nature.
- You feel stress, anxiety
- You need to rest better and relax your mind
- You want to improve your concentration and creativity
- You feel you have become disconnected from your body and your essence.
- You like nature and want to learn to enjoy it in a different way.
How to practice Shinrin Yoku?
There is no single way to practice Shinrin Yoku. The most important thing is to find a calm and quiet forest where you can relax and connect with nature. Some recommendations are:
- Walk slowly and attentively.
- Disconnect from your phone and other distractions.
- Observe the trees, plants and animals around you.
- Listening to the sounds of the forest.
- Smell the fresh air.
- Touching tree bark and plant leaves.
- Sit in silence and enjoy the peace of the forest.
Read also: Hiking Routes in Granadilla de Abona
How long should this activity be practiced?
It is recommended to practice Shinrin Yoku for at least two hours, but even a short 30-minute walk can have benefits.
What clothes should I wear to practice Shinrin?
To practice Shinrin Yoku forest bathing Japanese therapy, it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather and forest conditions. Here are some suggestions:
- Opt for breathable clothing that will keep you cool during exercise.
- Wear layers, especially if the weather is variable, so you can adjust to temperature changes.
- Choose comfortable and resistant footwear, such as hiking shoes or boots, to protect your feet and provide stability on uneven terrain.
- Use socks that absorb moisture and prevent blisters.
- Protect your head from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat or cap.
- If the weather is cold, bring a thermal jacket or coat to keep you warm.
- Don’t forget to bring insect repellent if you are in an area prone to insects.
- Consider carrying a small backpack with you to carry water, snacks and other essentials during your hike in the forest.
By choosing the right clothing, you will be able to fully enjoy your experience in nature while practicing Shinrin Yoku.
Where can I find a forest to practice Shinrin Yoku?
In Tenerife, one option to practice Shinrin Yoku is to visit the Teide National Park. Although this park is known mainly for its impressive volcanic landscape, it also offers wooded areas where you can enjoy nature and practice this activity. Within the park, you can explore trails such as the Sendero de la Fortaleza or the Sendero de los Roques de García, which will take you through forests of Canary Island pines and other native trees.
We also propose this activity in our greenest forests, in Parque Rural de Anaga, located in the northeast of the island. This park has lush laurel forests, which are ideal for immersing yourself in the practice of Shinrin Yoku. In conjunction with the Forestry Experience or as a stand-alone wellness activity. And if you want to do it in another area of the island, there is also the option.
In addition to these parks, Tenerife offers a variety of natural spaces where you can find forests and green areas to practice Shinrin Yoku, such as the Teno Rural Park, the Garajonay National Park (on the neighboring island of La Gomera) and various protected areas and nature reserves.
These activities can be done individually, or with your family, friends or co-workers. On some occasions we offer the activity as an open group activity (respecting the current protocols in terms of number of people, separation, etc.).
