Forest bathing, a practice that originated in Japan in the 1980s, is gaining attention in California for its potential health benefits. Japanese researchers found that spending time immersed in nature can help lower blood pressure, improve mood, and reduce stress. The practice, known as shinrin-yoku or forest bathing, involves being present in natural surroundings rather than engaging in activities like hiking or jogging.
Ben Page, Director of Training at the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) based in Santa Rosa, described forest bathing as “a very simple practice.” He explained, “It has a dual purpose: Part of it is about healing yourself and part of it is about repairing the broken relationship between the human world and nature.”
Justin Legge, a certified forest therapy guide from Humboldt County’s Elk Meadow Cabins & Redwood Adventures, offered another perspective on the translation of shinrin-yoku. He said a more accurate translation is “taking in the forest atmosphere,” which highlights its scientific foundation. According to Legge, “The organic compounds, or phytoncides, that conifers produce as they transpire throughout the day, have a plethora of physiological benefits. If you are standing next to a tree and breathing, you are technically ‘forest bathing.’ Research shows humans are needing more time outside near trees.”
California offers diverse locations for those interested in trying forest bathing—from redwood groves along the North Coast to cactus gardens in Joshua Tree National Park.
Page recommended setting expectations before heading out for forest bathing. He advised viewing it as an opportunity to connect with nature rather than focusing solely on personal healing. “It’s really about reciprocity,” he said. “How can we have a reciprocal experience with nature—with all other things on this earth?”
Participants can choose between solo or guided experiences. For those going alone, Page suggested minimizing distractions by turning off phones and leaving journals at home to focus on sensory experiences such as sounds and smells.
Guided sessions may deepen engagement with nature. Page compared them to yoga classes: “The guide is not the therapist; the forest is the therapist.”
Susan Madden—meditation teacher, forest bathing guide, and founder of Mindful Café in Madera County—offers two-hour guided sessions ending with tea ceremonies aimed at promoting mindfulness. She noted growing acceptance of mindfulness practices due to increasing scientific research supporting their health benefits: “It wasn’t too long ago that most people would have written that off as some pseudo-science bunk (and many still do), but mindfulness has come into the mainstream lately, in part because of the huge number of reputable, scientific studies finding a myriad of health benefits associated with mindfulness practices. A lot has been written about forest bathing, but it’s really something you have to experience.”
The ANFT connects individuals interested in forest bathing with guides across California through its website.
According to Page, any patch of nature can serve for forest bathing; however awe-inspiring locations may enhance appreciation for natural environments. Notable spots include Redwood State and National Parks along California’s North Coast; Point Lobos State Natural Reserve near Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park; Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks; Angeles National Forest near Los Angeles; Los Angeles County Arboretum; and Joshua Tree National Park.
Page emphasized bringing an open mind above all else when practicing forest bathing: leave expectations behind and enjoy being present outdoors.
