Forest bathing: An underused stress-relief technique

When we’re stressed, even deciding how to relax can be a struggle. Some believe that spending planned time among the trees can give us all the calm we need to cope with our hectic schedules.

The Japanese practice of forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, means taking in the forest through our senses. Connecting with nature can elevate our mood, help us think more clearly and even improve our health, according to some research.

With national and state parks aplenty in Kentucky, there’s no shortage of opportunities to positively impact our health with nature. Let’s get outside. No cell phones required.

– Andrea Brady