The term is borrowed from Japan where shinrin-yoku, forest bathing, just means visting a forest or wooded area for a short walk. In urban areas where trees coverage may be lacking, this could mean finding the nearest park, greenway or hiking trail. At home, you can plant trees, shrubs and flowers along a path. In this woodland yard, stone foot paths and bridges weave in and out of the garden, creating a walk of tranquility with the sounds of the stream.

Photo by Judy Davis