Who Invented Shinrin-Yoku? Forest Bathings origins explored

Shinrin-Yoku, also known as forest bathing, is a practice that can be traced back to ancient Japanese culture. Forest bathing was promoted by the Japanese government in 1982 as a means to relieve stress and relax. This form of therapy has many benefits, which have also been confirmed by research. So who invented shinrin-yoku? Let's take a look at the history of this therapeutic practice.

What forest bathing actually is, we discuss here in detail:
Shinrin Yoku: What is forest bathing and the benefits of trees?

The history of Shinrin-Yoku

The origins of Shinrin-Yoku can be traced back to ancient Japan. Early Japanese cultures used forests for their healing properties. This practice was further developed in the 1980s when the Japanese government began initiating forest therapy programs. The first official forest therapy program was established in 1982 and was named the Yamagata Prefecture Forest Therapy Project.

This project was launched in response to rising stress levels in Japan. The program was so successful that the government advocated for more forest therapy programs throughout the country. By 2004, there were over 50 official forest therapy programs in Japan. In fact, there are now forest therapy programs all over the world!

Forest bathing is practiced particularly frequently in South Korea, Taiwan, China, Germany, Switzerland, Finland, Sweden and the United States. This shows how much this therapeutic practice has become accepted worldwide.

Who researched Shinrin-Yoku?

Dr. Qing Li is one of the leading researchers on the effects of forest bathing. Dr. Li is a professor at Nippon Medical School in Tokyo and has written several books on the subject, including "Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness." In his book, Dr. Li discusses how forests can have a positive impact on our physical, mental and emotional health.

Dr. Li has found that Shinrin Yoku can lower blood pressure, improve heart health, strengthen the immune system and lower stress levels. He has also researched how spending time in nature can improve cognitive function and creativity. Overall, Dr. Li's research shows that Shinrin Yoku is an effective way to improve our health and well-being.

Closing words

So who invented Shinrin-Yoku? The exact origins of this therapeutic practice are unknown, but we do know that it has been used for centuries by cultures around the world. In recent years, Shinrin Yoku has gained popularity thanks to increasing research into its benefits - particularly by Dr. Qing Li. If you're looking for a way to boost your health and well-being, you should try Shinrin Yoku!