Engleski B - 2024. probna, reading 3.

Forest bathing

We all know how good being in nature can make us feel even if we are alone. The sounds of the forest, the scent of the trees, the sunlight playing through the leaves, the fresh, clean air – these things give us a sense of comfort. They ease our stress and worry, help us to relax and to use our minds more clearly.

In Japan, they practise something called forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku. While you might associate this with Japanese gardens or bonsai, it simply means being in nature: connecting with it through our senses. Some will spend their time in the forest exercising, while others will enjoy hiking to the highest peaks.

Even a small amount of time in nature can have an impact on our health. When it comes to finding calm and relaxation, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. It is important to find a place that suits you. If you love the smell of damp soil, you will be most relaxed where the natural landscape provides it. Maybe you have a place in the countryside that reminds you of your childhood or of happy times in the past. These places will be special to you and your connection with them will be strong.

You can have a highly structured forest-bathing experience with a focus on physical and psychological wellness. Walking with a guide who is a trained forest therapist can help you find the right environment to fit your needs. The guide can introduce you to one of the standard fitness programmes that is used across the country.

Forests provide the ideal experience. Of course, if you cannot find one, you can forest-bathe wherever there is a group of trees: in hot weather or in cold, in rain, sunshine, or snow. Once you have learned how to do it, you can do shinrin-yoku anywhere – in a nearby park or even in your garden.