The healing power of forest bathing

Actor Elisabeth Easther explores the wonders of forest bathing and how it can benefit the mind. She shares her experience, plus local wooded walks to try.

Does life feel more frantic than it used to, with the increased demands of work and family, not to mention everything else on our plates these days? If this rings true for you, how about setting aside some precious time to indulge in a spot of ‘shinrin-yoku’, aka forest bathing?

Forest bathing, you say? What’s that?

Well, it’s a mindfulness technique with flow-on fitness benefits and in spite of the fancy name, it simply means spending time in nature. The term shinrin-yoku was first coined in Japan in 1982. Translated, shinrin-yoku means ‘to be in the atmosphere of the forest’, and I first stumbled upon the practice last November during a charming guided walk on Bruny Island off the coast of Tasmania.

It was the final day of our 3-day adventure with the Tasmanian Walking Company and we were headed down Mount Mangana, the highest point on the island. We were a chatty group, so one of our guides suggested we space ourselves out and descend quietly, then she outlined the basics of forest bathing and a pleasant walk became something more magical. Being conscious of the crunch of our footsteps, the way the dappled light filtered through the canopy and the songs of the birds and bugs – by walking mindfully we properly absorbed the peace of the Australian rainforest.

Intrigued, once I returned home I sought to learn more about this forest bathing business, and discovered it has deep roots in Japan's Buddhist and Shinto traditions, while at its heart it is simply about immersing oneself in nature.

Into the woods for wellbeing

Researchers who have studied the psychological and physiological benefits of the great outdoors have found that spending time in nature offers myriad therapeutic benefits. From improving mood and mental clarity, to better quality of sleep, to alleviating stress and inflammation, and enhancing immune systems, energy and happiness levels. One study even found surgical recovery time was improved.

Forest bathing requires us to slow down and be fully present in the natural world. With all 5 senses switched on, bathers are encouraged to walk mindfully, as it is less about being vigorous or working up a sweat and more about being aware of one’s surroundings. When we are in nature being fully cognisant of each step or breath, we are more likely to experience serenity.

Stress relief among the leaves

Like so many modern professionals, I spend the bulk of my working day at a desk, usually looking at a screen, and it is draining. Which is why for many years, I’ve endeavoured to start each day with a decent dose of fresh air – a run, a bike ride, a walk or a game of tennis. I’m also fortunate to live in a suburb that has several short bush tracks, some of which pass beside creeks or lead to the sea, and it never ceases to amaze me how much more settled I feel and how ready for work I am after I’ve been outside.

And if I set out with a dilemma in my head, a conundrum about a story or project, I often find the solution while striding about in nature. But it is only recently that I have come to understand the value of being mindful in my movements, to not automatically plug into a podcast or an audio book or call a friend, because being properly absorbed in the now reaps emotional, psychological and professional dividends.

Auckland GP Dr Megan Corbett, from CityMed in Auckland’s busy CBD, is well aware of the value to her patients of time spent in the great outdoors. A keen tramper, Megan sometimes recommends her patients spend quality time in green spaces. “Patients often present with burdens of overwork, or they have fraught personal lives, and while I look thoroughly at all management options, I often suggest they look to find solace in nature.”

People can also find it comforting to learn that such a simple solution to life’s stresses can be found on our doorstep. So next time you’re feeling a bit burned out, lace up your boots and head outdoors for a good old-fashioned dose of nature. It could be just what the doctor ordered!

Elisabeth’s 4 favourite forest trails

Alice Eaves Scenic Reserve, Ōrewa, Auckland

• Just 40km north of Auckland’s CBD, Alice Eaves Scenic Reserve on Old North Rd offers a selection of walking tracks, from loops to A-to-Bs with towering stands of kauri, groves of nīkau and peeps of sea between trunks.

Butterfly Creek Loop, Eastbourne, Wellington

• Whether you drive or take the ferry over to Eastbourne, the Butterfly Creek Loop is a favourite capital city walk. Starting at Kōwhai Street, head towards Muritai Park and discover well-maintained tracks through established native bush.

McLeans Forest, Christchurch

• Park at the forest entrance off McLeans Island Road, then choose from a range of peaceful trails through diverse native flora, with astonishing views en route. Perfect for a relaxed wander, McLeans Forest offers an escape from city life.

Ross Creek Walk, Dunedin

• Start at the end of Cannington Road and head to the impressive reservoir on this pretty scenic loop through native bush that rings with birdsong.

Doctors’ wellbeing walks with Tasmanian Walking Company

Tasmanian Walking Company is a 100% carbon-neutral small-group tourism operator offering 3 to 10-day premium walks across some of Australia’s most spectacular nature trails. They also have a handful of multi-day walks specifically for doctors, because they realise that in the demanding world of medicine, the wellbeing of health professionals often takes a backseat. These Doctors’ Wellbeing Walks are not only guided by an expert in leadership, they also provide a path to renewed vitality and resilience. This year, 6 Doctors’ Wellbeing Walks are being offered in 3 locations around Australia:

• Capes Track in Tasmania
• Overland Track in Tasmania
• Larapinta Trail in Northern Territory