Page 26 - Landscape-Issue 156

RECREATION FEATURE

NATURE AS MEDICINE:

SHINRIN-YOKU AND FOREST THERAPY

Decades of research along with centuries-old traditions all point to the same thing:

time spent in nature is time well spent for our health. Studies continue to show that
being outdoors supports both physical health and emotional wellbeing.

ven the World Economic Forum (WEF) has taken notice and also to support climate action and boost local economies through
is now spotlighting forest bathing on its global platform by wellness tourism. Since the 1980s, researchers have been studying
Esharing research findings, publishing articles and promoting how forests contribute to preventative healthcare, sustainable forest
nature-based solutions as part of the future of public health. management, and broader social and economic wellbeing — and the
Spending time outdoors or playing with friends in a park are a evidence keeps growing. Many countries in the northern hemisphere
natural part of growing up for most people. Moments of laughter and have really taken this to heart by investing in forest management,
fresh air were fun and a natural part of feeling alive and connected. scientific research and national policies to support forest therapy.
Here in South Africa, the practice often goes by names such
Forest therapy as nature therapy or healing in forests. It’s closely connected to
The roots of forest therapy lie in Japanese culture, where it is known guiding, psycho-social therapy, environmental education, yoga and
as shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing” – an immersion and sensorial meditation. Because there’s no formal training framework yet, most
experience in a forest environment. The practice began formally practitioners bring together their own expertise — whether they’re
in Japan, introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and guides, environmentalists, psychologists, occupational therapists or
Fisheries when that country was facing rising rates of depression, wellness facilitators — to help people reconnect with nature through
environmental destruction, and burnout brought on by the transformative and restorative outdoor experiences.
technology boom. Shinrin-yoku was developed as a gentle, natural South Africa’s incredible landscapes of dense forests, gentle hills
antidote — a way to help people recover from the pressures of and long stretches of coastline create the perfect backdrop for
modern life. outdoor healing. Our bond with nature has always been strong and
As a therapeutic practice, it provides a wide range of benefits— in recent years, nature-based therapy has been taking root across
mental, physical, emotional and social. It is about slowing down and communities. It’s now growing steadily as an alternative approach to
immersing oneself in nature — using all five senses to take in the healing — especially when it comes to mental health and managing
sights, sounds, smells, textures and even tastes of the forest. The stress in our busy, modern lives.
idea is simple: improve overall health and wellbeing by connecting Forest bathing practice involves deep, conscious breathing,
deeply with nature. inhaling volatile organic compounds (VOCs) known as phytoncides.
These same health challenges have now become global issues. These airborne compounds are emitted naturally as a defence
Today, many experience “sensory overload” from constant stress, against bacteria, fungi and insects, and are inhaled while walking
blue screens and city living. Stepping into a forest offers a powerful through a forest – this not only calms the mind but also strengthens
reset — a chance to breathe, slow down and let the calm of nature immune systems.
embrace the body. Scientific research has shown that phytoncides stimulate the
Forests and open green areas provide so much more than just production of natural killer (NK) cells—a type of white blood cell
beautiful scenery — they’re powerful spaces that support health that helps the body fight off infections and tumours. Even brief
and wellbeing. In today’s world, dealing with the after-effects of the sessions of forest bathing can have a remarkable impact on health.
Covid pandemic, fast-paced urban living, deforestation, and growing By inhaling these natural compounds, the body’s ability to defend
mental health challenges, it’s no wonder forest therapy (FT) is getting and strengthen itself against harmful microbes and everyday
so much attention. stressors encountered at home, work or in busy environments, is
What’s exciting is that Western disciplines such as psychology, increased.
tourism and leisure studies are now weaving forest therapy into Unlike studies in the northern hemisphere, where substantial
their own fields — not just to improve personal wellbeing, but evidence identifies forests and tree species rich in phytoncides

24 Landscape SA • Issue 156 2025 Check us out www.salandscape.co.za