Forest bathing, also called Shinrin-Yoku, is a Japanese practice of immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. And as the daughter of a forester who grew up “slowly” in the woods, I deeply understand its benefits.
But don’t just take my word for it: Many studies have concluded that spending just 10 minutes a day in the woods can help improve sleep, strengthen immunity, and reduce anxiety. Think what students can accomplish with better sleep and fewer sniffles—and let’s be honest, who doesn’t need a little stress relief? (Teachers included, right?)
It doesn’t matter if your school is in a pine tree or lives in a concrete jungle. There are many ways to make forest bathing work for you and your students. (Spoiler alert: Fresh air works wonders anywhere!)
Strategy #1: Go to the forest!
Forest bathing is the ultimate way for students of all ages to connect with nature. Teachers can easily adapt experiences for all developmental levels.
For younger students, make it fun! Ask them to use their “super senses” to see certain colors, listen to sounds, and feel textures (such as tree bark or moss).
Elementary and middle school students will love looking at patterns, counting sounds, or drawing what they see in a writing journal. I took my middle school students on a seasonal sensory walk that inspired some wonderful poems.
High school students can go further by identifying outside personalities near their school. Teachers can encourage this type of learning by going outside regularly. Encourage careful observation by using senses such as “What do you see today that you didn’t notice before?”
No matter what happens, make sure you include quiet times. In these moments of silence, students will learn the joy of deepening their focus. An outdoor sensory walk can transform the school day into a peaceful, meaningful experience that deepens students’ connection with the natural world.
Strategy #2: Bring the firewood to you
Teachers can extend the benefits of forest bathing by bringing wood into the classroom. Its attention meets “nature decoration,” and yes, fake plants also count!
Create natural sounds
Throughout the day, play soft background music with forest sounds such as birdsong, rustling leaves, or a gentle stream. One of my class favorites is Calmsound. This website has every nature-based background sound imaginable, from ocean waves to Antarctic winds. I used these recordings as writing prompts by asking students to write an essay that goes along with the audio.
Add forest-inspired visuals
There’s no need to take down your favorite word walls or those creatively named hard charts. But consider adding tree-themed visuals to create a calm, nature-inspired vibe. Consider posters of lush forests, pictures of large trees, or a small houseplant to add a pop of green. Easy-care options like pothos and snake plants are perfect for even the most plant-challenged among us.
Don’t forget your concerned students
You don’t need to hug a real tree to enjoy the benefits of a forest at school. Bring the sense of touch to life in your classroom by having students create leaf rubbings with crayons and paper, exploring texture while discovering unique natural patterns! Fill sensory bins with natural materials such as pine cones, smooth rocks, or moss (real or fake).
Integrate environmental learning
Forest bathing principles can bring lessons to life across subjects and grade levels while fostering a sense of mindfulness.
Literacy sessions can have nature-themed instruction. For example, ask students to describe a walk in the woods or imagine life as a tree. Science subjects can delve into nature’s trees, exploring photosynthesis, habitats, and environmental interactions. Even math subjects can find the twists and turns of a forest by measuring leaves or counting the height of a tree. And all of this together can connect students to the natural world in meaningful, calming ways.
By bringing the outdoors in, the classroom can become a peaceful, inclusive environment that fosters creativity and fosters connection with nature.
Bringing the principles of forestry into your classroom is not a walk deep into the forest. (Although that would be great!) It’s about creating meaningful moments that help students and teachers breathe easy.
Whether it’s a sensory walk outside, nature-inspired decorating inside, or simple hands-on activities that mimic the forest experience, these small steps can have big redwood style benefits. Improved focus, reduced stress, and a greater sense of connection with the natural world, no hiking boots, will improve everyone’s school day!
So, whether you’re providing the sound of rustling leaves in the background or learning your region’s climate by looking at tree rings, you’re fostering an environment where both learning and wellness can flourish!
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