Recommended at a Bellevue Botanical Garden webinar. ( )

This neat little book is based around a simple concept: we evolved in nature, and stepping back into nature--literally, through the concept of "forest bathing"--can help alleviate some of the stress of modern urban life. On the surface it seems a little obvious; anyone who enjoys camping, gardening, or even walking in the park can tell you that those hobbies help them relax. Here, though, the author presents the research he and his colleagues conducted into what exactly happens in the body when we take a moment to appreciate the natural world.

From the beginning, I already felt drawn into the concept. Just looking at the beautiful photographs of Japanese forests helped me escape my office break room for a few minutes. Living in a desert, I also appreciated the alternatives for people who can't get away to the forest on a regular basis: bonsai, flower arranging, or even essential oils, to name just a few. (Other resources on forest bathing do mention that the specifics of the landscape are less important than getting outdoors, but I don't recall that in this book.) There is a brief section on stretches and physical activity to help get the most out of forest bathing.

Unfortunately, I can't decide if this book covered too much or too little. Many of the concepts felt overdone at times, with certain statistics repeated within one or two pages of each other. On the flip side, the researcher tackles an almost dizzying array of topics, including how to use certain essential oils, the significance of different kinds of wood, and an overview of forest bathing retreats around Japan. I also found the research to be uneven: while some studies were very thoughtfully designed and executed, it seemed like the author exaggerated the implications of others.

This idea is just gaining traction with American audiences, but I think it's a valuable one. We could all use a little more time in nature, and if this book helps inspire someone to do so, I'm glad for it. This book is a pleasant, if ambitious, introduction to forest bathing loaded with beautiful photographs, scientific research, and a wide range of options for those of us who are ready to dive in.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley to read in exchange for an honest review. ( )

Do you like slowly wandering around the woods with no particular aim than to take in the surrounding beauty, breathe in the fresh air and be present and at one with nature? Then this book Shinrin-yoku: The Japanese Way of Forest Bathing for Health and Relaxation by Yoshifumi Miyazaki, should definitely be on your b
ookshelf! Honestly, if you'd asked me if there was such as thing a couple of weeks ago, I would have laughed at you and told you, you were just lazy. But it really is a thing.

Shinrin Yoku or 'forest bathing' was developed in Japan in the 1980s and brings together ancient ways and wisdom with cutting edge environmental health science. Believe it not, (oh, you must!) there are now forest bathing stations and walkways scattered throughout Japan, but you don't have to all the way over there (although I would love to) to experience this simple, calming practice. No! With this book you can learn the art, strap on your walking shoes and get on out there and start your own Shinrin Yoku pathway.

Although, reading the book, it's got a certain appeal and much more "hippyish" in China, including an itinerary of forest therapy (and tree-hugging), soba-noodle making, pottery workshops and stargazing - and that's just day one! Can also include mediation, yoga, ar
omatherapy and forest concerts.

Involving all the senses, and taking all the greenery around you (and green is a very relaxing colour) you will find Shinrin Yoku benefits you in ways you didn't know were possible. Numerous tests and studies have been made for this book. One example I'd like to share was how subjects were monitored (and properly measured) after just 15 mins walking in the morning, and 15 mins sitting and viewing the greenery in the afternoon. This short break in everyday life - reduced stress, blood pressure, pulse rate and cortisol, and increased a whole range of feelings from comfort and calmness with a decrease in anxiety.

Another great example showed the effects of just staring at a Bonsai tree for 60 seconds. Well, I tell you, I'm getting everyone I know who needs de-stressing a Bonsai tree for Christmas! It will be the best bloody present they could ask for - even if they do look at me as if I'm going mad when I ask them to just do
one thing for me. Sit and stare at it for 60 seconds every day...

Now. Are there any Bonsai specialists in the UK? I want one or two. ( )