Have you ever noticed how a simple walk in the woods can leave you feeling lighter, calmer, and just a little bit happier? There’s a wonderful reason for that, and it’s called forest bathing.
What Is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is a gentle practice from Japan that invites you to slow down and truly soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of the forest. It’s not about hiking, exercise or having to get naked!—there’s no need to reach a destination. Instead, you simply unplug from your phone, breathe deeply, and let nature work its quiet magic. As the BBC puts it, “Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is a form of sensory relaxation where you spend restorative time in a forest or another natural environment.”
Below is a walk we have been taking for over 30 years near our home in the town of Buckingham, England. It started in the days of being newly weds, through the years of pushing a pram, then taking children on bike rides to now, calmly walking again. Never did we realise we were 'forest bathing' but we always came home more calm and refreshed!
The Simple Joys and Benefits
You don’t need to be a scientist to feel the difference after time spent among the trees. People often say they feel less stressed, more relaxed, and even a bit more cheerful. And it’s not just in our heads—studies have shown that forest bathing can help lower stress, improve mood, and even support a healthy immune system. According to Harvard Health, “Decades of research show that forest bathing may help reduce stress, improve attention, boost immunity, and lift mood.” Even a couple of hours in nature can make a real difference.
Forest bathing is now so well respected that in places like Japan and South Korea, doctors prescribe it for stress or high blood pressure. It’s a simple, natural way to feel better—no special gear or training required.
“Engaging with nature seems to have a measurable effect on our physical and mental health.”
— BBC Science Focus
Why Does It Work?
Much of the magic comes from slowing down and letting your senses wake up. The fresh air, the green leaves, and the gentle sounds of the forest all help us feel more grounded and present. As Dr Qing Li, a leading researcher, explains, “A two-hour forest bathe will help you to unplug from technology and slow down. It will bring you into the present moment to de-stress and relax you.” Trees even release natural oils called phytoncides, which give the forest its wonderful scent and may help our bodies relax and recharge.
Bringing the Rainforest to You—with Tagua
At The Happy Elephant, not only is our jewellery something beautiful to wear—it’s a little piece of the rainforest you can keep close, wherever you go. Every tagua piece starts its story in the lush forests of Ecuador, soaking up the same fresh air and vibrant green energy that make forest bathing so restorative. When you choose tagua, you’re not just supporting sustainable fashion and rainforest conservation—you’re carrying a daily reminder of how nature can lift your spirits and help you feel more grounded. By choosing tagua, you’re not just supporting sustainable fashion and rainforest conservation—you’re carrying a gentle reminder of nature’s ability to soothe, uplift, and inspire, wherever you are.
So next time you slip on your favourite tagua necklace or bracelet, take a slow, deep breath. Imagine the rainforest of Mindo, Ecuador (which you can see in the moving image above), sunlight filtering through the leaves, and the peaceful hush of nature all around you. Even if you can’t get to the woods today, you can bring a little of that forest magic into your life—one beautiful, meaningful piece at a time.
Why not bring a touch of the forest to your day. Discover your perfect tagua piece—shop The Happy Elephant Collections now.