Nature Bathing; shinrin-yoku

Sometimes the best medicine is simply to step outside. “Nature bathing,” or shinrin-yoku as it’s known in Japan, is the mindful practice of immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world. Unlike hiking or exercise, nature bathing isn’t about distance or speed—it’s about presence. Research shows that spending just 20–30 minutes in a natural setting can lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve mood.

One of the remarkable discoveries behind these effects lies in the terpenes—the aromatic compounds released by trees and plants, especially evergreens like pine, cedar, and cypress. When we breathe in these natural plant chemicals, they interact with our nervous and immune systems in subtle yet powerful ways. Studies suggest that inhaling terpenes such as alpha-pinene and limonene can increase the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, support immune defense, and even elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine associated with calm and focus.

Whether it’s walking through a forest, sitting beside a river, or simply standing beneath a tree and breathing deeply, this gentle ritual helps regulate the nervous system and restore mental clarity. For many, it becomes a grounding habit—an intentional pause from digital noise and daily demands that recenters the mind in the here and now. Try setting aside time each week to “bathe” in nature and allow your senses—and the terpenes around you—to do their quiet work of restoration.

~Dr. Marcus Logan