The mental health crisis and long waiting lists for therapy have led to a surge in people seeking alternative treatments, with many turning to ecotherapy as a solution. One increasingly popular form of ecotherapy is forest bathing, a practice that involves being calm and quiet among trees, observing nature, and breathing deeply.
With the NHS reporting a significant increase in the number of patients accessing mental health care in England, more and more individuals are seeking solace in nature to escape the stresses of modern life. Forest bathing manager Susanne Meis has witnessed the transformative effects of this practice on thousands of people, with some even crediting it with saving their lives.
The concept of forest bathing inspired London designer Ula Maria to create a Forest Bathing Garden, which won a gold medal at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show. The garden serves as a place of solace and reflection for those affected by muscular dystrophy, providing an immersive and calming experience.
Mental health charity MIND supports the use of forest bathing as a way to de-stress and boost wellbeing, emphasizing that it should be used in conjunction with other mental health treatments. Despite misconceptions, forest bathing does not involve simply “taking off your clothes,” as some may believe.
The practice of forest bathing, originating from a Japanese tradition known as shinrin-yoku, involves mindful activities that engage the senses and promote relaxation. With the NHS reporting a rise in mental health disorders among children and young people, the benefits of ecotherapy, including forest bathing, are increasingly being recognized as a valuable addition to traditional therapies.
