Into the forest I go to lose myself and find my soul. It’s trendy yet has history. Its mindfulness meets nature.

Forest bathing is the practice of taking a short, leisurely visit to a forest to improve mental health and to boost physical immunity. (Not to be confused with an energetic walk or hike).

The practice originated in Japan back in the early 1990s. The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries coined the term Shinrin-yoku (森林浴) – which translates roughly as forest-bathing. (Rumor has it that some practitioners actually practice this ritual au natural.”) But let’s keep our shirts, shorts and shoes on, please!

This practice is proven by scientists to benefit physical and mental health as it helps lower heart rate, blood pressure, reduce stress-hormone production, boost immunity and mood, and improve overall feelings of wellbeing. In addition to these benefits, recent research showed significant increases in cellular activity after forest bathing. This promotes the body’s defense against illness. Incredibly, this effect can last for a month following a weekend traverse in the woods.

The aim of forest bathing is to slow down and become immersed in the natural environment. Tune in to the smells, textures, tastes and sights of the forest. Breathe deeply and take in the surroundings by using all of your senses. Close your eyes and just listen. Then upon opening your eyes, imagine that you are standing on holy ground, in a magical place, as if you are seeing the world for the very first time.

Many health care providers are incorporating forest therapy as an organized stress-reduction strategy. There’s no question that stress takes a terrible toll on our health. In the United States, studies found that work-related stress alone accounts for up to $200 billion in health care costs. Fortunately, there continues to be a growing interest in the US and in the UK to address physical health and overall wellbeing.

Here’s a harmonious admonition from Joseph Pilates, “By all means, never fail to get all the sunlight and fresh air you can!” As a child, Joe would lie in the woods for hours, hiding and watching how the animals moved, how the mother taught the young. This helped him understand natural movement and how to mimic it within the human form which is displayed within his monumental method.

This brings to mind many Yoga asanas and Tai Chi movements which mimic animals. These ancient practices also reflect respect for nature. Who doesn’t love tree pose and the Sun Salutation series, or Tai Chi Pulling-Up-Earth’s-Energy and Cloud Walking?

Let’s grab a friend or two to do some forest bathing. Nature’s calling!