I go to Nature to be soothed and healed and have my senses put in order
James Burroughs
Definition
In research and scientific contexts, two overarching concepts have become increasingly established: Nature-Based Interventions (NBI) and Nature-Based Therapy (NBT). Forest bathing may fall under either category, depending on the context in which it is applied (and, to some extent, the competence of the guide). When offered to the general public as a voluntary wellness activity, it meets the criteria for being defined as an NBI. When in a clinical context, with adjustments to fit a specific population, it may be referred to as NBT.
The term forest bathing is a direct translation of the Japanese concept Shinrin-Yoku (森林浴), which means “taking in the forest atmosphere with all the senses,” or more literally, “forest bathing.” The practice combines very slow walking in a park or forest with guided activities that open the senses in connection with the surrounding, natural environment. When we engage in forest bathing, we spend time in nature in a particularly present and attentive way, fostering a deeper connection and relationship with the environment.
Background
Shinrin-Yoku originated in Japan. In the 1980s, as stress-related ill health increased significantly among the Japanese population, the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries initiated the development of large forest parks to support nature-based recovery. At the same time, the term “forest bathing” was introduced. Its originality and evocative quality helped bring attention to the practice and attracted urban populations to engage with it.
During this period, scientific research into the effects of forest bathing was also initiated, and the training of forest bathing guides became increasingly established.
How does it work?
A forest bathing session typically lasts between 2–3 hours and differs in several ways from a conventional walk, hike, or physical activity in nature. The pace is significantly slowed, and participants are gently guided into experiences that open the senses and deepen awareness, often in ways that go beyond everyday perception.
At intervals, participants pause and gather for shared reflection. These moments of stopping and sharing experiences can provide safety, support, new perspectives, and contribute to a richer overall experience.
Forest Bathing Methodology
The Scandinavian Nature and Forest Therapy Institute (SNFTI) offers professional training for guides in forest bathing and forest therapy, based on the methodology Eco Forest Therapy. This methodology has been developed specifically for Scandinavian and Nordic contexts, taking into account local culture, landscapes, seasons, and climate conditions.
Eco Forest Therapy is grounded in experiential knowledge as well as scientific theories and research at the intersection of nature and health. While it shares certain foundational elements with both Japanese and American approaches (such as those developed by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy), it has evolved over time through more than ten years of development within Swedish and Nordic contexts.
SNFTI’s current methodology and models are brought together under the name SHIFT M.A.P. These models integrate elements from science, psychology, deep ecology, and meditation. They describe, among other aspects, pathways to nature connectedness and wellbeing, the core competencies of the forest bathing guide, as well as the psychological processes and experiential flow of forest bathing.
The ambition is both to meet and to contribute to the standards of clarity, professionalism, and scientific grounding required in advanced education, competence development, and research.
International Standards
SNFTI follows international guidelines for advanced education in forest bathing and forest therapy:
- ICCFT (International Core Curriculum for Forest Therapy) – developed by over 120 experts from 20 countries under the leadership of INFTA (International Nature and Forest Therapy Association)
- ISFTP (International Standard for Forest Therapy Practice) – a framework for health, ecology, and cultural integrity, developed by the Multidisciplinary Institute of Nature Therapy (MINT), University of British Columbia
SNFTI is also listed among internationally approved education providers:
https://anft.earth/about-global-network/
For more information about training at SNFTI, please read more HERE.
A warm welcome!
©Copyright by Scandinavian Nature and Forest Therapy Institute. All rights reserved