Allow me to introduce you to Shinrin-Yoku, which literally means “taking in the forest atmosphere” also known as “forest bathing”. It was developed in Japan during the 1980s and has become a cornerstone of preventive health care and healing in Japanese medicine.
So what is it exactly?
The idea is simple: if a person simply visits a natural area and walks in a relaxed way, there are calming, rejuvenating and restorative benefits to be achieved.
The objective of Shinrin-yoku walks is to give us the opportunity to slow down, appreciate the things that can only be seen or heard when one is moving slowly, and take a break from the stress of our daily lives.
Here are scientifically-proven benefits of Shinrin-yoku, which includes:
Boosted immune system functioning, with an increase in the count of the body's Natural Killer (NK) cells.
Reduced blood pressure
Reduced stress
Improved mood
Increased ability to focus, even in children with ADHD
Accelerated recovery from surgery or illness
Increased energy level
Improved sleep
Inspired by the Japanese tradition of Shinrin-Yoku, I’ve created a treatment exclusively for members only. The Stress-Melting Body Treatment will take you on a massage journey similar to taking a stroll in the forest using a luxurious blend of Native Forest Oils, Calming Frankincense and Sandalwood, Stress Relieving Bergamot and Sweet Orange made by Body Bliss: the Tree of Life Forest Bathing essential oils that mimic the effects of breathing forest air to reap its health benefits.
The treatment begins with a welcoming foot ritual, like putting your feet in the river for a refreshing dip; followed by a full-body dry brushing to eliminate toxins and skin renewal, like leaves falling from the trees in the fall; then completing your journey with a relaxing massage using slow and long gliding strokes focusing on your tension areas, all while listening to the sounds of nature…
Massage therapy shares many health benefits as Shinrin-Yoku. Though there is nothing better in comparison to being outdoors in a forest, this treatment is thoughtfully created to take you on a “Forest Bathing” journey without actually leaving your home.
I know life can get hectic sometimes.
Take time to smell the flowers.
Take time to hug a tree.
Take time to hear each bird sing.
Take time to enjoy the view.
Take time to simply – BE.
Reference:
http://www.shinrin-yoku.org/shinrin-yoku.html
http://www.bodybliss.com/blog/bring-the-japanese-tradition-of-shinrinyoku-to-the-spa/