The Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku or “Forest Bathing” has been seeing a lot of attention in the press lately. Even the Cleveland Clinic, a reputable medical hospital recently published an article called, “Why Forest Therapy Can Be Good For Your Body and Mind”. It discusses how Forest Therapy can lower the stress hormone cortisol as well as blood pressure. Many of these health benefits come from mindfully spending time in nature. We all know deep down we feel better when we spend time outdoors. So why is it so difficult to prioritize taking a walk in nature? For New Yorkers who live a busy lifestyle, it can be hard to access nature trails, let alone make time to be mindful. So here are a few tips for ways that Urban City Dwellers can access the health benefits of Forest Bathing in the City.
Read moreRecommended Reading for Nature connection
Below is a list of books in several categories related to nature connection that Cultured Forest recommends reading in partnership with Amazon.com. Our recommendations include non-fiction to educate yourself on how to better connect to nature and fiction writing to help you find an outdoor escape. Categories include books about forest bathing, nature connection, nature science, mindfulness, hiking, nature-based fiction and trauma recovery. If there is anything you would recommend please add it to the comments.
We recommend the following books an an introduction to Shinrin-Yoku or “Forest Bathing”:
“Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health And Happiness” by Qing Li
“Shinrin Yoku: The Japanese Art of Forest Bathing” by Yoshifumi Miyazaki
“Forest Bathing: A Start Here Guide for Beginners” by Dr. Cyndi Gilbert
The following non-fiction books discuss theories and science behind connecting with trees and nature:
“The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative” by Florence Williams
“Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature-Deficit Disorder” by Richard Louv
The following books discuss the practices of Mindfulness and Meditation in nature for healing:
Conscious Nature: The Art and Science of Meditating in Nature by Josh Lane
Rewilding: Meditations, Practices, and Skills for Awakening in Nature by Micah Mortali
These books address body awareness and mindfulness as tools for recovering from trauma:
Books both fiction and non-fiction in which you will become intimately more acquainted with trees:
Try some adolescent adventure fiction to inspire your outdoor spirit:
These hiking memoirs will make you feel like you are on the trail:
