5-minute Japanese technique to relieve anxiety: It went viral online
In an increasingly fast-paced and stressful world, many people are looking for effective ways to deal with anxiety. But there is a way out - a Japanese practice that can reduce anxiety in 5 minutes, reports Marca.
How to get rid of stress and anxiety - the Japanese way
Recently, a Japanese technique called Shinrin-yoku has gained popularity on social media. This practice translates to "forest bathing" and is a Japanese tradition that involves immersion in nature and enjoying the forest environment with all the senses.
Developed in Japan in the 1980s, Shinrin-Yoku was conceived as a response to the growing levels of stress and lifestyle-related illnesses. The main idea is that spending time in nature can have a profoundly positive impact on our physical and mental health.
The practice consists of visiting the forest (photo: Pixabay)
How to practice Shinrin-Yoku
No special skills or equipment are required for this practice. Here are some simple steps to enjoy this experience:
Find the forest
Look for a natural place where you can walk without distraction. It can be a forest, park, or any green area.
Disconnect
Leave your electronic devices and any distractions behind. Allow yourself to be present in the moment.
Walk slowly and mindfully
This is not about intense exercise; rather, walk slowly, allowing your body to relax and adapt to the environment.
Use all your senses
Pay attention to what you see, hear, smell, and feel.
Observe the colors of leaves, listen to birds singing, feel the texture of tree bark, and breathe in the fresh air.
Take your time
Take your time; spend at least 20-30 minutes in this natural environment to get the most out of it.
Reflect
At the end of your walk, take a moment to reflect on how you feel.
You can keep a journal to record your thoughts and experiences. Shinrin-Yoku or forest bathing is a simple but powerful practice that invites us to reconnect with nature and take advantage of its healing effects.
Read also about 10 good habits to master in 2025 if you want to change your life.
Earlier, we wrote about 6 tips to relax for the holidays until you fully recover.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.