Last updated September 19, 2025
What if your doctor prescribed nature over conventional medicine? Forest bathing is becoming a vital part of preventative healthcare worldwide. In fact, doctors in many countries are now giving patients green prescriptions (Green Rx) to spend time outdoors.
According to New Scientist, venturing into the great outdoors has been shown to improve sleep, reduce stress and boost happiness—not to mention an increase in attention, memory and creativity.
While nature isn’t a cure-all, spending time in crisp air sure does wonders.
Enter Forest Bathing Retreats
Essentially, forest bathing is a wellness practice where one immerses fully in natural surroundings. Forest bathing retreats offer a structured, immersive experience: participants unplug from technology, engage all five senses, and restore mental, physical and emotional balance. Time in forests or green spaces magnifies stress relief, strengthens immunity, enhances focus and deepens connection to nature.
Originating in Japan in 1982, this practice is known as Shinrin Yoku. Japan embraced it as a preventative health measure in response to rising suicide rates, technology dependence and social isolation. Today, forest bathing remains an accessible way to enjoy holistic wellness.
Shinrin Yoku: a form of eco-therapy known as forest-bathing; the physiological and psychological exercise of taking in the forest atmosphere.
In Japan, roughly 70% of the country is covered by forests and green spaces, making it easy for residents to adopt the practice. Forest bathing encourages slowing down, noticing your surroundings and fully experiencing the natural environment—sometimes even barefoot to feel grounded.
While it’s most effective in woods and forests, the practice can also be enjoyed in arboretums or indoor forest rooms. And yes, these are a thing.
Benefits of Forest Bathing
The concept of forest bathing is supported not only by subjective experiences, but research actually confirms its health benefits. For one, it has been shown to reduce stress and stress hormone levels.
Forest bathing has notable benefits on blood pressure, anxiety, insomnia and cardiovascular wellness. Additionally, nature wellness boosts immune function and revitalizes white blood cells. Recently, forest bathing has been explored as a complementary approach for Attention Deficit Disorder management
Despite the name, forest bathing retreats don’t involve water or nudity—they take place in dense, wooded greens. No water necessary.
Nature Heals What Ails You
As a new form of wellness travel, forest bathing retreats promote immersion. According to TIME, forest bathing “is like a bridge and by opening our senses, it bridges the gap between us and the natural world.”
The secret is in your five senses. Hear the rustling leaves, smell the fresh forest air, feel the textures beneath your hands and feet, see the vibrant greens, and simply be present.
By immersing ourselves in nature, numerous health benefits occur. Benefits for our mental, intellectual, social, spiritual and physical health. Think of it as the forest version of the immune-system booster shot from your favorite juice bar. Just like drinking a boosted smoothie improves the health of your immune system, immersing yourself in nature improves your overall well-being. Immune-system included.
This is the very reason that nature wellness escapes have become increasingly popular.
Rising Popularity of Forest Bathing Retreats
Wellness travel is in. Rising demand for wellness vacations means experiences like forest bathing are more appealing than ever. Considering only 30% of Earth is forested, these retreats offer a rare, rejuvenating escape.
Most vacations focus on UV rays and sandy beaches. When was the last time you truly immersed yourself in a forest?
Green Is Good
Opportunities to explore nature wellness abound. The challenge is finding time to unplug and immerse yourself in nature. Many travelers now include forest bathing as part of wellness itineraries—day walks in Tuscany, mountain hikes, outdoor cycling and more.
Once you return, the experience often inspires you to keep nature immersion part of your lifestyle—at home or abroad.
It suffices to say: go out into the woods and practice mindfulness. Your mind and body will be all the better when you do.
Snapshot Summary
Forest bathing retreats immerse travelers in nature to boost wellness, reduce stress and improve immunity. Originating in Japan as Shinrin Yoku, the practice guides participants to engage all five senses in forests or green spaces. Studies show forest immersion enhances mood, focus, sleep and overall well-being. Wellness travelers increasingly choose forest bathing retreats to disconnect from technology, restore mental and physical health, and experience the unique benefits of nature-based therapy.
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