Have you ever tried forest bathing? The term (known as shinrin-yoku) originated in Japan during the 1980s. Forest bathing is all about submerging yourself in a forest location, and using your senses to immerse yourself in the different sights, sounds and smells of the outdoors. In fact, it represents a way to build a bridge between ourselves and the natural world. And its advocates believe that reconnecting with the great outdoors in this way can help to improve both physical and mental health. So, like biophilia, forest bathing strives to increase our connectivity with the natural environment.
The best medicine
Forest bathing has been proven to reduce stress, improve feelings of wellbeing, lower heart rate/blood pressure, and increase creativity. In other words, I think it’s one of the best medicines for modern living. The only problem, of course, is that not everyone has easy access to a forest. And even those who do, might not find it quite so welcoming during the long, dark, cold winter months!
Forest bathing gives you the chance to embrace your inner calm and connect with the natural environment
So, I have been thinking about how to interpret the concept of forest bathing in a bathroom. And I must say I think this is a match made in heaven. After all, recreating the look and feel of a forest indoors is the next best way to experience the benefits. With an increased awareness of how our environment affects our wellbeing, we are already more connected to the benefits of turning our bathroom into our personal wellness retreat. After all, this is where we can take time out to relax and recharge. So, I recently spoke to interior designer Justyna Kelly and home stylist Kim Heslip to get their take on this concept. And The Brighton Bathroom Company have kindly shared this stunning project, showcasing the epitome of forest bathing:
Plants are an essential part of any forest bathing bathroom retreat. Use real or faux foliage – and don’t be afraid to mix and match sizes and styles
How to bring the outdoors in
I believe bringing the forest into your bathroom is not as hard as you may think. In fact, it’s all about finding ways to be at one with nature in your own private bathing space. Justyna Kelly, owner of Interiors by Justyna, agrees. “Forest bathing is a wonderful concept to embrace in a bathroom where, by definition, we make time to take care of ourselves. People’s homes have become their havens – a place where they need to switch off and relax, as well as work and lead a busy family life,” she notes. “So, our interiors have to deliver on this front and I cannot think of a more perfect concept for self-care than forest bathing. It also ties in with the idea of sustainability, respect and humility towards nature, and living in harmony with it.”
