RSPB Lake Vyrnwy is about to embark on our first ‘forest bathing’ (Shinrin-Yoku) event on Saturday 18th November. Forest bathing (sometimes known as ‘forest therapy’) is the practice of fully immersing yourself in a natural woodland environment. It has become one of the most important forms of health care in Japan.
Most of us will know from experience that a simple walk can leave us feeling emotionally and physically recharged. When we apply a little mindfulness and begin to learn how to really be present, we can really build on this, opening the door to a world of possibilities. It’s like the difference between diving and falling, or flying and jumping; experience of the latter may give us a glimpse of the former but they are not the same thing.
Studies into the effects of mindfulness based therapies, such as ‘forest bathing’, have demonstrated numerous physiological and psychological benefits to health and wellbeing. Our bodies produce more beneficial chemicals and less of the stress hormone, cortisol. Just 15 minutes of forest bathing has been shown to reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels as well as improving concentration and awareness. Serotonin; the ‘happy’ chemical is released and we see a rise in endorphin levels leaving us feeling naturally lifted. GABA is produced which makes us feel calm and melatonin levels increase dramatically (which is linked to good sleep; boosts the immune system; helps prevent cancer; and slows down the aging process!).
Photo by Mark King 2017
If you want to gain these benefits, be prepared to leave your phone and camera behind and spend a little time silent and fully present in the natural beauty that will surround you.
With no large towns or major roads nearby, Lake Vyrnwy provides a truly stunning setting to begin to build practice forest bathing. The sound of the birds in the trees, the serenity of the valley; the dramatic vistas; the variety of woodland and the sheer size of the reserve; all add the feeling of letting go of our daily troubles and fully opening to our experience of the beauty of the nature.
Photo of Lake Vyrnwy by Mark King October 2017
Mark King, Membership Development Officer
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