The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku—literally translated as “forest bathing”—is based on a simple premise: immerse yourself in the forest, absorb its sights, sounds, and smells, and you will reap numerous psychological and physiological benefits. The Forest Agency of Japan launched a campaign to introduce the activity in 1982, and, since then, its popularization there has been matched by a stream of supporting research concerning the role that nature can play in human health. Studies have shown that regular exposure to forest environments can lower blood pressure and anxiety, reduce anger, and strengthen the immune system. The forest-bathing ethos has gained traction in the United States, too: you can now sign up to join the national Forest Bathing Club (whose registration form includes a field for “spirit animal”), or apply to become a certified forest-therapy guide. Or you can simply go to a local greenspace, disconnect, and listen to the trees.
José Ginarte, newyorker, 012518
