I’m a huge tree fan. That is, I’m enthusiastic about trees – not that I specifically like huge trees. I don’t really mind their size. Woodlands are magical places that can inspire the imagination and soothe the soul. My personal favourite is Coedwig Niwbwrch (Newborough Forest) on Anglesey. The forest is adjacent to Traeth Llanddwyn beach, which is frequently featured in travel guides and top ten travel destinations due to the stunning scenery. The forest trees here (Corsican Pine) are not native and were planted in the early twentieth century for timber and to stabilize the shifting sand dunes. The forest is full of trails – great for mountain biking or hiking if you prefer to steer clear of the exposed beach in wintertime. Also, it’s home to a healthy red squirrel population (another form of life I’ve waxed lyrical about in the past).
One of the main reasons I like to visit the forest here is because of how it makes me feel. In Japan, they have a name for the physical and mental health benefits gained from immersion in a woodland environment – shinrin-yoku or forest bathing. It describes the calming nature of being among the trees and filling one’s senses with all the woodland has to offer – the sounds of the breeze blowing through the branches, the colours of the leaves and the textures of the bark, and the smell and taste of the cool woodland air. Forest bathing was popularized in the 80s in Japan when the government tried to tackle increasing work-related stress and burnout by investing in woodland conservation and establishing numerous forest bathing clinics across the country. Forest bathing became available on prescription, meaning doctors could prescribe it as an alternative to medication for patients who were suffering from stress or high blood pressure.
The benefits of forest bathing have been demonstrated by scientists. Ample research has shown it to be effective in reducing blood pressure, improving mood, and even boosting immune function. Getting out into the forest not only makes for an enjoyable excursion but is actually good for you as well. Perhaps next time you find yourself pining (pun intended) for calm and relaxation, try getting out into the nearest woodland and soak up the atmosphere among the trees.
