In today’s world, where the pace of life accelerates each year, more and more people experience emotional exhaustion, anxiety, and a lack of connection with themselves. In response to this inner fatigue, nature offers an ancient yet newly relevant remedy — forest bathing. This gentle and accessible way to restore mental balance is gaining popularity in the Czech Republic, where forests cover over a third of the country’s territory.
What Is Forest Bathing and Where Did It Come From?
The term forest bathing (in Japanese — Shinrin-yoku) originated in Japan in the 1980s as a response to rising stress levels among urban residents. It literally means “immersing in the forest atmosphere.” The essence of the practice is a slow walk through the forest with full attention to the surrounding world, without any specific goal, route, or urgency. It is not a sport or tourism, but a kind of meditation in nature that allows one to reset their inner rhythm.
Over time, the effectiveness of forest bathing has been confirmed by scientific studies: reduced levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), improved concentration, lower blood pressure, and better mood are just some of the positive effects experienced by participants in such walks.
Why Are Czechs Choosing the Forest Over Psychotherapy More Often?
The Czech Republic is a country rich in forest resources, from the Krkonoše to Šumava, from the Moravian Karst to the Bohemian Forest. Many residents of large cities such as Prague, Brno, or Ostrava feel an acute need to take a break from their noisy and packed schedules. The forest becomes a place where one can quite literally take a deep breath.
Psychologists and coaches in the Czech Republic increasingly recommend forest bathing as a supplement to treatment for anxiety disorders, burnout, and depression. The advantage of this approach lies in its accessibility: no expensive equipment is required, no special training needed. All you need is a nearby forest and a bit of time.
Moreover, in the context of digital fatigue — when a person receives thousands of informational stimuli daily — being in the forest brings the focus back to simple and authentic things: the sounds of birds, the rustling of leaves, the soft light filtering through the trees. It is the opposite of screen-based experiences and that is exactly why it has such a deep impact on the mind.
How Does Forest Bathing Work and How Is It Different From a Walk?
Many mistakenly think forest bathing is just a walk. In reality, the key difference lies in the approach and level of mindfulness. Participants in these walks try to move slowly, without talking, without checking their phones, and without listening to music. The attention shifts to sensations: the coolness of the air, the scent of pine, the texture of bark, the interplay of light and shadow.
Often the practice includes breathing exercises, simple movements aimed at relaxation, or visualization elements. In the Czech Republic, certified forest bathing guides have already appeared, especially in tourist regions such as South Moravia or the Liberec Region.
For independent practice, one rule is important: disconnect from everything external and tune in to the “here and now.” Even a short stay in the forest can provide the body and mind with the rest they need.
The Benefits of Forest Bathing: Scientific and Personal Perspectives
Studies show that regular walks in the forest improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and enhance immune function. One of the effects is explained by the presence of phytoncides — volatile compounds emitted by trees. They have antibacterial and calming properties.
In addition to physiological effects, there are emotional benefits. Many participants report a sense of inner peace, improved concentration, and a renewed feeling of connection with themselves after such walks. This is especially important during times of instability — when the outside world feels unpredictable and personal anchors are lost.
It’s no coincidence that companies have started using forest bathing as part of mental wellness programs for their employees. Some Czech organizations offer their staff recovery days in nature, including slow forest walks, outdoor yoga, and even short retreats without phones.
The Forest as a Space of Inner Silence
Forest bathing is not just a way to relieve stress. It is an opportunity to remember that humans are part of nature, not mere observers. In the silence of the forest, the inner voice becomes audible again — the one often lost in the noise of city life. It’s the voice that reminds us of our true desires, values, and simple joys.
In this context, people increasingly talk about the so-called “digital diet” — a conscious break from screens for several hours or days. Walks in the forest are an excellent opportunity to reset, whether after a tough week, emotional overwhelm, or simply in search of balance. In the Czech Republic, special screen-free weekends are already being held, during which participants fully devote themselves to nature and to themselves.
Conclusion
Forest bathing is not a trend but a return to a natural way of healing. In a world where emotional balance becomes increasingly fragile, nature provides the stability, rhythm, and quiet that many people are lacking. In the Czech Republic, where the forest is not only part of the landscape but also part of cultural heritage, the practice of forest bathing feels especially relevant and accessible.
There is no need to travel far or wait for a vacation. Sometimes, it’s enough to simply walk into the nearest forest, slow down, and allow yourself to be. Without goals, without a schedule, without noise — just you and the forest. It is in such moments that not only energy is restored, but also the sense of presence.