It is called a fitness trend and a mindfulness practice.
What is “it?”
“It” is forest bathing. The Japanese coined the term in the 80s to mean that it is both a psychological and a physiological exercise. The purpose is to inspire you to reconnect with the forests while enjoying an antidote to high-tech, modern world burnout.
This form of eco-therapy spread quickly. Researchers soon began documenting the benefits of forest bathing, which gave us scientific evidence of what we already innately know: spending time immersed in nature is healthy.
While the term “forest bathing” is new, the practice of intentionally spending time out in nature has been around for thousands of years.
Forest bathing can be as simple as walking in any natural environment and consciously connecting with what’s around you. Taking a walk in the woods can help calm your body and thoughts. Use your senses to truly immerse yourself in the natural world around you.
You can do this on your own, or you can join trained guides for a meditative two- to three-hour ecotherapy excursion.
You will find plenty of certified nature therapy guides to lead you on a forest bathing excursion. Many will encourage you to bring your dog along too. Check with The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT). Many guides have backgrounds in spirituality training as well as being a nature guide.
Why bring your dog while forest bathing?
If you have dogs, you typically have a set walking schedule around the neighborhood. You leave at a set time and take the same route day after day. You’re on a sidewalk with traffic zipping by while you breathe in the fumes.
Forest bathing with your pup is much more intentional. Your dog will enjoy being away from the noise and distractions. This quiet freedom enables them to open up more of their senses and lower their stress levels. Watch how they behave in nature. Ultimately, they will slow down and become much more aware of the sights, sounds, and scents around them. If they are anxious, they will calm down. Follow their lead.
Forest bathing can be healing for both humans and our furry family members.
Tips for forest bathing with your dog
When you bring your dog with you for forest bathing, try these tips to make it beneficial for both of you:
- Plan on several hours to explore with your dog. If your dog has not been outdoors for long periods, start more slowly. The goal is not to cover the most distance, but to fully enjoy where you are.
- Bring water and a snack for both of you. Also bring a tick remover.
- Let someone know where you are going just in case of emergency.
- Turn off the cell phone.
- Leave the dog toys at home. Your dog will be thrilled with a stick found along the way.
- Let your dog set the pace.
- Walk slowly. Intentionally notice the environment around you.
- Get down at your dog’s level and look at whatever trees, plants, or other things are at their eye level. See how this shifts your perspective.
- Do not play music regardless of how soothing it may be. Listen to the sounds of nature.
- If you choose to go off-leash with your dog, be mindful of them out of respect for nature, other dogs, and people.
- Check the weather, as extreme heat and cold will affect a dog even more than humans.
- Your dog should experience the ground directly on their paws to receive the greatest benefit from forest bathing, so refrain from carrying them in your arms or a backpack. Still, bring soft pads if you will be hiking over rocky areas.
- Let your dog roll in the dirt or mud, splash in the puddles, and chase the lizards and gophers. This is a joy for them. However, discourage them from drinking water on the ground as it may be dirty or full of germs.
Going on a guided forest bathing trip
If you are inexperienced, you may prefer to hire a certified guide who will have extensive wilderness emergency training and a deep understanding of how to help facilitate healing. The guide will be aware of any potential pitfalls while actively encouraging you to reconnect with nature.