The demands of daily life often limit our abilityo connect with nature. Forest bathing offers a way to slow down, engage your senses, and mindfully immerse yourself in the natural world – free from distractions.

Despite its name, forest bathing doesn’t actually involve water. Instead, it’s about absorbing the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest to promote relaxation and mental clarity. Sleep expert and Mattress Next Day CEO, Martin Seely, shares the benefits of this practice and how to incorporate it into your routine.

Benefits of Forest Bathing

Scientific studies have consistently demonstrated remarkable health benefits from this practice:

1. Reduces stress and anxiety

Martin explains “Over time, regular forest bathing can lead to a significant reduction in anxiety. Spending time in nature actively lowers cortisol levels, helping your nervous system shift from fight-or-flight to a state of calm relaxation.”

2. Boosts the immune system

Lower stress levels don’t just improve mental health—they also have a profound effect on the immune system. Martin adds “Forest bathing may help lower inflammation caused by stress. Therefore, improving heart health, and enhancing the body’s ability to fight off illness.”

3. Improves Sleep

In today’s screen-heavy world, disrupted sleep patterns have become a common problem. Martin highlights how “Exposure to natural light and environment helps regulate your circadian rhythm, promoting better sleep quality and hormone balance. It can also regulate melatonin production, ensuring that you feel more awake when you should and naturally sleepy when it’s time for bed.”

4. Enhances Mental Clarity & Mood

“Much like meditation, forest bathing encourages mindfulness, helping to clear the mind of racing thoughts and daily stresses,” says Martin. “Many people find that after a session of forest bathing, they experience improved focus, enhanced creativity, and a boost in overall mood.”

How to practice forest bathing:

Starting your forest bathing journey is simple and requires no special equipment, just a willingness to slow down and be present in nature. Martin explains “To start forest bathing, choose comfortable, loose clothing and waterproof, sturdy shoes. Find a nearby forest or wooded area and walk slowly, deliberately engaging all your senses while keeping digital devices away. Research shows just 2 hours per week can provide significant benefits, which can be split into shorter sessions to fit your schedule. While locations like the Forest of Dean offer ideal settings, the best spot is a local green space that’s convenient and accessible to you.”