In our fast-paced modern lives, many of us seek alternate ways of reducing stress by connecting with nature. Recently gaining traction in western countries, the idea of ‘forest bathing’ has become more ubiquitous on social media.
Its conception is often credited to shinrin-yoku, a health practice popularised in Japan in the 1980s, while a similar pursuit related to forest bathing but not exclusively conducted in nature, is the practice of mindfulness. Many trends on social media are easy to dismiss, but with forest bathing there is science to back some of the positive health claims. A recent study has found that forest bathing can even improve memory and attention amongst older people (Ramanpong, et al., 2025). There are many books about shinrin-yoku and guided introductory sessions for those new to the practice.
If you are new to forest bathing, the term means to bathe your senses, rather than the traditional custom of immersing your body in water. You can utilise all or any of your senses, but the easiest and safest in a forest setting is sight, sound, and smell. You can choose to focus on your senses while walking gently or find a comfortable place to sit. Taking deep, slow breaths, you quiet your mind and pay attention to how the fresh air smells. Are there any smells that you can recognise? Listen to the sounds of birds, rushing water, or wind in the leaves. Imagine that you are experiencing these senses for the first time. Every time your mind starts to wander, the idea is to gently bring your awareness back to one of your senses. You can choose to focus on all the different leaf shapes, different shades of green, or observe the dappled light. There is no strict adherence to any set of rules in the practice of forest bathing; you can choose to focus on things that appeal to you the most.
If you’re new to Forest Bathing and would like a guided introduction, Rippon Lea Estate is hosting two sessions in September and October with Dr Kathleen Bagot from Nothing Like Nature. These sessions invite you to slow down and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the 14-acre gardens. Find out more and book your place here.
Top National Trust places for forest bathing
Endeavour Fern Gully
195 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill, VIC, 3937
Starting at the Nearkey Biik Environmental & Education Centre, take a stroll along the boardwalk amongst various vegetation such as tree ferns and tall Messmate Stringybarks. The gully is a beautiful place for observing fungi during autumn.
Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf Reserves
Mt Leura Road, Camperdown, VIC, 3260
For geology enthusiasts, visit the Mt Leura and Mt Sugarloaf Reserves. You can tailor your own experience by choosing from nine different tracks in this nested maar.
The Briars
Nepean Highway, Mount Martha, VIC, 3934
Starting at The Briars Historic Homestead, work your way down to the Wildlife Sanctuary, a perfect place for those wanting to be around native animals.
Rippon Lea Estate
192 Hotham Street, Elsternwick, VIC, 3185
For bird lovers wanting to experience nature’s melodies, why not try Rippon Lea Estate Gardens. The seven-hectare garden is a biodiversity haven in the City of Glen Eira.
Many National Trust properties have been saved from harm, and it is important that we continue to look after these places. Give something back to nature by travelling to your forest bathing location sustainably. You do not have to travel far, even local parks and reserves closer to home with peaceful pockets can be just as soothing.
This article was originally published in the Autumn 2025 Members Magazine. Join today to enjoy three copies of our Member-only Magazine each year.
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