Forest bathing – forest therapy

Forest bathing is the mindful practice of immersing yourself in the forest with all your senses to restore peace, balance, and natural energy.

The Origins of Shinrin-yoku in Japan

Shinrin-yoku (Japanese: shinrin, “forest”+ yoku, “bath, bathing.”) started in Japan in the 1980s in response to a national health crisis, as more and more stress-related illnesses started to occur, where people were directly exposed to industrial and technological work environments. It was the first time, where introduction to outdoor experiences allowed to find relief from every-day struggles.

Japan, being two thirds covered in forest, is filled with greenery and a vast diversity of trees. Residing there is the Hokkaido region, Japan’s last great wilderness, and the Japanese Alps, filled with mountain ranges and thick pine forests. After several studies were conducted in Japan during the 1980s, forest bathing was seen to be an effective therapy method as it showed the beneficial health effects of the compounds, such as phytoncides, and of the essential oils that certain trees and plants emitted. Decades of research show that it may help reduce stress, improve attention, boost immunity, and lift mood.

Experiencing the Forest with All Senses

Forest bathing basically means experiencing the forest to the fullest, using all our senses and full presence in order to derive all the healing benefits. It brings our minds to the present moment, allowing thoughts to slow down and focus more on our surroundings. Feeling of gentle wind on the face, smell of the pine trees, haring how fallen leaves brittle under the feet, squinting eyes from the sun’s rays peeking through the dancing branches, hearing melody of chirping birds and taking deep, long breaths through the nose to capture freshness of individual scents – this is what forest bathing is all about: practice of being calm, quiet and being present with our natural surroundings.

Honest reviews

Client Testimonials

This was a completely different experience than a traditional language course. Daily conversations in the forest or by the campfire made the language feel natural, not just theory. For the first time, I realized that learning can truly go hand in hand with joy and peace.

Paweł

The Fluent Oasis Academy gave me more than a year of standard lessons ever did. The atmosphere of silence and closeness to nature allowed me to focus 100%, while also taking a real break from everyday stress. It’s not just a language course, it’s an investment in yourself.

Marcus

I absolutely love this Academy! After intensive lessons, I could relax in the sauna or go kayaking. Thanks to that balance, I felt my mind absorbed knowledge faster, and new words truly stayed with me. It was the best educational decision I’ve ever made.

Thomas