IIDCA - International Institute of Sport and Applied Sciences

Japan promotes "Forest Bathing" as healthy habits 

  05/02/2024 Noticias


These public policies reflect the Japanese government's commitment to promoting the health and well-being of its citizens through interaction with nature. This is where "shinrin yoku" or "forest bathing" was born, which is about taking the time to notice what we see, breathe deeply, feel the contact with the air, the textures of the leaves, listen to the wind through the trees, hear the birds.

Shinrin yoku, which was adapted in 1982 as a public policy, is inspired by ancient Buddhist practices and Shintoism, a religion native to Japan that worships the spirits of nature. The Japan Forestry Agency has selected 65 green spaces suitable for the therapy, which is proven to help reduce rising levels of stress, anxiety and depression in the urban population.  At least 2 million Japanese people a year practice this therapy as a relief for their mental health, guided by therapists and/or forest guides.

These public policies reflect the Japanese government's commitment to promoting the health and well-being of its citizens through interaction with nature. In addition to connecting with ancestral therapies, the government advises healthy eating and physical activity as well.

 

IIDCA

Instituto Internacional del Deporte y las Ciencias Aplicadas