Out into nature

Perhaps you have come across the topic of forest bathing somewhere in recent months? This health trend comes from Japan, where it is called “Shinrin Yoku”, and it now inspires countless people here as well. The basic idea is as simple as it is effective: forest bathing means consciously spending time in the forest, perceiving your surroundings with all your senses and giving your mind a real break from everyday life. It is not about athletic performance, as is often the case with hiking, but about slowing down and mindfulness. This can do body and mind a world of good.

Forest bathing – benefits and effects

Many people report that they feel calmer, more refreshed, clearer and more energized after a forest bath. They say that the stress of everyday life falls away from them and that the atmosphere of the forest puts them in a more relaxed mood. There are a whole range of reasons for these positive effects:

• Spending time in nature and looking at greenery simply feels good. Many different studies show that being in green spaces can lower stress levels and bring about a general sense of calm.
• Fresh air is good for the whole body. In the forest, there are also various scents that help us finally breathe deeply and calmly again.
• In everyday life, most people feel rushed and stressed. They always have to be reachable and always have to perform. Forest bathing offers a counter-concept to this. For a while, it is neither about performance nor effort, but only about perception and being. This can have a very relaxing effect and sometimes even develop a kind of spiritual component.

How does forest bathing work? Instructions for beginners

Has your curiosity been sparked and would you like to try forest bathing? Then you could look for guided sessions in your area where you can learn forest bathing in small groups under experienced guidance. Or you can simply explore the effect of this technique on your own. It’s not difficult at all! Here’s how you can go about it:

• Take your time for your trip to the forest! You should have at least one, preferably two undisturbed hours available so that you can make the most of the positive effects.
• Find a quiet part of the forest where you can unwind!
• At the start of your forest bath, turn all phone notifications off so that you are not disturbed! Perhaps you might even like to switch on flight mode or leave your smartphone at home altogether?
• Now walk slowly through the forest and take in as many impressions as possible! What do you see, hear, smell and feel?
• Stop every now and then, take a deep breath and feel the ground beneath your feet! You can also take the time to look at a tree, a flower or a stream for a longer period. What details do you notice?

Keep reminding yourself: forest bathing is not about performance and there is no right or wrong. Let yourself drift and, for a while, truly come back to yourself!

Learning to live healthily with the Jentschura-Akademie

Forest bathing is just one element you can use for a relaxed and healthy life. If you would like to learn more about how to get started with a healthy, alkaline lifestyle, then our seminar “Learning to Live Healthily” is just right for you. In two and a half days full of experiential learning, you can gain a wealth of practical and theoretical insights into living a healthy life.

The practical content includes, among other things, alkaline foot baths and full baths, brush massages, scrubs, wraps, alkaline wholefood cooking and relaxation methods that you may never have tried before. The seminar is perfect for anyone who wants to get started with the topic or needs an inspiring break from everyday life. Does this sound like you? Then sign up!

Forest bathing – pure relaxation!