Forest Bathing

Shinrin Yoku: 'taking in the forest atmosphere,' the medicine of simply being in the forest, 'forest bathing.'

From the healing properties of phytoncides (self-protective compounds emitted by plants) to the ways we can benefit from what forest spaces can teach us, Forest Bathing: The Rejuvenating Practice of Shinrin Yoku discusses the history, science and philosophy behind this age-old therapeutic practice. Examples from the ancient Celts to Henry David Thoreau remind us of the ties between humankind and the natural world-ties that have become more and more elusive to Westerners.

This book explains the traditional Japanese concepts that help readers understand and share in the benefits of the Japanese approach to forest bathing-a cornerstone of healing and health care in Japan. These concepts include:

Yugen: Our living experience of the world around us that is so profound as to be beyond expression
Komorebi: The interplay of leaves and sunlight
Wabi sabi: Rejoicing in imperfection and impermanence

The book goes n to offer guidelines for finding our replenishment in these peaceful, isolated spaces-from turning off the phone (or leaving it at home) to seeking the irregularities in nature, which in turn can make us less critical of ourselves. Finally, it offers tips not only on being fully present and mindful while you're in the forest, but also on how to take that mindfulness home with you-even if that home is the busiest and most crowded of cities.

About the Authors

Francesc Miralles is a lecturer and award-winning author of bestselling books in the area of mind-body-spirit. Born in Barcelona, he studied journalism, English literature and German philology, and has worked as a translator, editor, art therapist and musician. His novel Love in Lowercase has been translated into 28 languages. Along with Hector Garcia, he is the author of the bestselling Ikigai: the Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life.

Hector Garcia was born in Spain and worked at CERN in Switzerland before moving to Japan, his home of fourteen years and counting. In Japan he developed voice recognition software and the technology for young Silicon Valley companies to enter the Japanese market. His popular blog kirainet.com led to his internationally successful book A Geek In Japan. Along with Francesc Miralles, he is the author of the bestselling Ikigai: the Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life.