Whether it’s the Asian tradition of meditation in forests or some of the psychological theories like Stress Recovery Theory by Ulrich (1991), Restoration Theory by Kaplan, (1985), the calmness that forests, greenery or for that matter a garden rich in plants can provide is unparalleled. Forest bathing is a Japanese concept and is known as Shinrin-yoku in the Japanese dialect. It got adopted as the country’s national health program backed by numerous scientific research about the benefits of this practice. Just 20 minutes in the forest boosts up mental health. Our moods start to become better, hypertension decreases and stress hormones get relaxed - point out the studies. 

Benefits outnumber the trouble in finding a perfect green patch in this forest of concrete

Forest bathing is not that easy in this jungle of concrete but if you are able to find any such land then there is nothing like it. Maybe you will have to drive a bit outside the town but that trouble would look smaller in front of the benefits. Over a period of time, you will realize that:

• You are getting lesser angry
• Sleeping better
• Getting lesser stressed
• Able to switch out of unwanted thoughts and keep your mind still
• Experiencing more happiness and peace

Embrace nature with open arms whenever you get time or whenever situations allow you and you will find the calmness and beauty of nature getting imbibed in your outer and inner personality, making you serene.

Do not take your phone along, it’s a big distraction. You will get lost in clicking pictures and selfies and the whole purpose will be lost. Silently walk, observing every leaf, flower, tree and bird and soak yourself in nature’s surroundings. Sit quietly for sometime and hear all the forest sounds. Nothing would be more rejuvenating!