Forest bathing: nature’s de-stress therapy / Wan Nordini Hasnor Wan Ismail

Stress has become an all-too-common companion in our fast-paced, technology-driven world. Our minds and bodies frequently suffer the consequences of chronic stress as we juggle work, family, and personal responsibilities. To combat this modern ailment, a novel and effective treatment has emerged: forest bathing. Forest bathing, also known as Shinrin-Yoku in Japan, is a practice that involves immersing oneself in nature's healing power to decrease stress and increase overall well-being. This article investigates the concept of forest bathing as a stress reduction therapy and its benefits, which are supported by scientific evidence. Forest bathing originated in Japan in the 1980s, when the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries promoted it as a way to reconnect with nature while also improving one's health. Numerous studies have since been conducted to investigate the physiological and psychological effects of forest bathing, highlighting its potential as a natural stress-reduction strategy. The presence of phytoncides, which are antimicrobial organic compounds emitted by trees and plants, is one of the main reasons why forest bathing is effective in relieving stress.