Forest Bathing: Benefits and Practices for Workplace Well-being
- Randa Abbasi
- Sep 18, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 28
“When I am among the trees…”
(Excerpt from Mary Oliver’s poem)
When I am among the trees,
especially the willows and the honey locust,
equally the beech, the oaks and the pines,
they give off such hints of gladness.
I would almost say that they save me, and daily.
I am so distant from the hope of myself,
in which I have goodness, and discernment,
and never hurry through the world
but walk slowly, and bow often.
Around me the trees stir in their leaves
and call out, “Stay awhile".
The light flows from their branches.
And they call again, “It’s simple,” they say,“
and you too have come into the world to do this, to go easy, to be filled
with light, and to shine.”
–Mary Oliver
Being in nature has a way of restoring our minds, calming our bodies, and giving us a sense of clarity. But did you know that spending time in a forest—also known as Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku)—can have powerful health benefits, including reducing stress, boosting immunity, and improving focus?
At EnableWorks, our team recently experienced a guided Forest Bathing session in Hagley Park, and the results were truly refreshing. But what exactly is Forest Bathing, and how can it support workplace well-being?
What is Forest Bathing and how can it support workplace well-being?
Despite the name, Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku) has nothing to do with water. Originating in Japan in the 1980s, this practice involves slowing down, immersing yourself in nature, and engaging your senses to relieve stress and improve well-being.
Research has shown that Forest Bathing can help with:
✅ Reducing stress, anxiety, and depression
✅ Lowering blood pressure & heart rate
✅ Boosting immune function (by increasing NK cells, which fight infections and even cancer)
✅ Improving focus and creativity (ideal for workplaces!)
✅ Enhancing overall well-being
How Does Forest Bathing Work?
When you spend time in a natural setting, your body and mind respond in positive ways due to several key forest elements:
🟢 Natural Chemicals from Trees – Trees release phytoncides and terpenes, which can activate the immune system and boost mental clarity.
🟢 Increased Oxygen Levels – Forests contain high levels of oxygen, creating a sense of vitality, relaxation, and mental sharpness.
🟢 The Colour Green – Green is the most calming and soothing colour for the human brain, reducing stress.
🟢 Patterns in Nature (Fractals) – Repetitive patterns in leaves, branches, and landscapes create a subconscious feeling of comfort and well-being.
🟢 Soothing Natural Sounds – The sound of birds, rustling leaves, and running water triggers the relaxation response, reducing stress hormones.
How to Practice Forest Bathing (Step-by-Step Guide)
While anyone can practice Forest Bathing, a guided session can help you fully experience its benefits. Here’s what a typical session includes:
Wake Up Your Senses
🟢 Feel the textures of leaves, bark, or soil. 🟢 Observe the different shades of green around you. 🟢 Listen to birdsong, the wind, or the sound of your footsteps.
Focus on Deep Breathing
🟢 Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly. 🟢 Repeat 5-10 times to relax your nervous system.
Slow Down & Be Present
🟢 Walk at a slower pace than usual. 🟢Notice small details—the shape of a leaf, the sunlight filtering through the trees. 🟢 Let go of distractions and focus on the here and now.
Take a Moment to Reflect
🟢How does your body feel? 🟢 What emotions or thoughts arise?
🟢 Do you feel calmer, more aware, or more connected to nature?
Engage in a Forest “Invitation”
A guide will often provide an invitation—a simple exercise like: 🌿 Taking photos of things that inspire you 🌿 Sitting silently for a few minutes to observe the surroundings 🌿 Touching different textures (bark, grass, leaves)
Why Businesses Should Consider Forest Bathing for Workplace Well-being
In today’s fast-paced work environment, stress, burnout, and mental fatigue are common challenges. Offering employees an opportunity to reset, refocus, and recharge through Forest Bathing can lead to:
🌿 Increased productivity and focus 🌿 Lower stress levels and improved mental health 🌿 Better team bonding and collaboration 🌿 A stronger connection to well-being initiatives
Many forward-thinking workplaces are now integrating nature-based well-being programmes to support their staff.
Experience Forest Bathing with a Guide
At EnableWorks, we recently had the privilege of experiencing a guided Forest Bathing session led by Catherine Fink, an Occupational Therapist with a special interest in nature therapy.
How about adding some forest bathing to your self-care tool kit, or that of your work team?
If your workplace team is feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or in need of a mental reset, a Forest Bathing session could be the perfect solution. Catherine can curate a just right forest bathing experience for you or your team.
Forest Bathing isn’t just about spending time outdoors—it’s about mindfully connecting with nature to improve well-being, focus, and overall health. Whether you practice it on your own or with a guide, incorporating more time in green spaces can have lasting benefits for both individuals and workplaces.
📩 Contact EnableWorks at info@enableworks.co.nz to arrange a tailored Forest Bathing experience for your team!
💬 Have you ever tried Forest Bathing? Let us know your experience in the comments!
Catherine Fink is an Occupational Therapist with a special interest in nature therapy who guided the EnableWorks team in their forest bathing experience. Catherine can curate a just right forest bathing experience for you or your team. If you’ve got people at work who are stressed, tired or a bit jaded, how about a forest bathing experience with Catherine? Contact EnableWorks for more information on info@enableworks.co.nz
Reference. 1. Clifford, M A. 2021. Your Guide to Forest Bathing: Experience the Healing Power of Nature. Red Wheel Books. USA.
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