Shinrin
yoku:

Let's
go
for
a walk?

Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, is an immersive nature experience that originated in Japan. It draws its roots from ancient traditions that recognized the healing and rejuvenating effects of spending time in nature. The practice was formalized in the 1980s as a response to Japan's rapid urbanization and the increasing disconnection from natural environments.

Decreases cortisol levels

Lower blood pressure

Phytoncides secreted by trees have antimicrobial properties and increase immunity

Peace and relaxation

Emotional relief and mild physical activity

BY FOCUSING ON OBJECTS, SOUNDs, SHAPEs, YOU CAN FEEL YOURSELF fully again,
YOUR NATURE.
BE GROUNDED AND refreshed

The concept of forest bathing is based on the belief that immersing oneself in the atmosphere of a forest brings numerous mental, emotional, and physical benefits. The practice involves mindfully engaging with nature by leisurely walking or simply being present within a forest or natural setting. It encourages individuals to use their senses to appreciate the natural surroundings fully.

Today, forest bathing has gained popularity globally as a holistic wellness practice. It serves as a means to reconnect with nature, promote relaxation, and improve overall well-being.

My Project

different nature locations around malmO
spring 2025

1.5-2.5 hours per each session (mainly weekends)

willingness to be mindful and curious

Group of up to 4-5 people

1

2

3

All sessions will be held in English

I will add you to closed group-chat in WhatsApp. We approve the schedule and meet at a predefined location one-two times per week. Each week will be dedicated to different theme.

Each walk we do a sequence of mild and meditative exercises to build connection with Malmö and it's natural beauty.

Before and after each walk you will need to fill in the evaluation form containing information regarding your wellbeing and experience.

Malmö is a multinational city with over 186 nationalities. Generally people relocating to another city or country experience anxiety and home sickness as they don't have enough bonds to the place.
I have been through relocation process three times and nature has been a great place to build this connection to new location. Going through 4-week sequence of mild and meditative exercises we will explore how to build connection with Malmö and it's natural beauty.

Reviews

Fatigue in the body, shoulders relax, arms hang like whips. My legs are springy. There is no tactility, the palms do not feel. Stifling air.
Multi-storey building. The trees create a green, low ceiling overhead.

LOOK!
THE FOREST IS NOT GREEN! BROWN, BLUE, LIGHT BLUE, TRANSPARENT, PINK. YOU close YOUR EYES, Squint your eyes, and watch the mass move.
DYNAMICS OF MOVEMENT, DIRECTION, ASPIRATION.
EXPRESSION AND FADING AT THE SAME TIME.
SUNLIGHT THROUGH THE FOLIAGE, LEAVES GLOW, sunlight ON THE TREES, LIGHT ON THE GRASS.

The inner child gets high.
And there is also an incredible thrill from the fact that you can get pleasure and joy from simple things. I wish many more generations of people and living things could enjoy the forest (and summer).

Anxiety left me, peace hugged me, the pace slowed, the city retreated and was left behind, the people were also slow, the walk was measured, trust and quiet conversation. My body relaxed, breathed deeply, filled with oxygen. Peace. Peace. Peace.

I FELT AMAZINGLY SAFE AND CALM. EVEN AT THAT MOMENT WHEN I FOUND UP, THERE WAS NO FEELING OF FEAR, ALTHOUGH THIS WAS ONE OF THE BIGGEST FEARS IN CHILDHOOD. IT WAS ALSO VERY FUN TO LOOK AT ALL ALL PLANTS, STUDY THE FOREST, FIND MUSHROOMS THAT I HAVE NEVER SEEN IN MY LIFE.

Ekaterina Silina