Forest bathing, aka Shinrin-Yoku, is the Japanese practice of immersing oneself in the forest’s sights, sounds, and smells. And as the daughter of a forester who grew up “slow-hiking” through the woods, I deeply understand the benefits of it.
But don’t just take my word for it: Multiple research studies have concluded that mindfully spending just 10 minutes in the woods a day can help improve sleep, boost immunity, and reduce anxiety. Imagine what students could 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 situated in a pine grove or nestled in a concrete jungle. There are plenty of ways to make forest bathing work for you and your students. (Spoiler alert: Fresh air works wonders anywhere!)
Strategy #1: Go into the woods!
Forest bathing is the ultimate way for students of all ages to connect with nature. Teachers can easily adapt the experience to all developmental levels.
For younger students, make it playful! Ask them to use their “super senses” to spot particular colors, listen for sounds, and feel textures (like tree bark or moss).
Upper elementary and middle school students will love looking for patterns, counting sounds, or sketching their observations in a writing journal. I’ve taken my middle school students on seasonal sensory walks that have inspired stunning poems.
High schoolers can go further by identifying the persona of the outdoors near their school. Teachers can inspire this kind of study by heading outdoors often. Encourage careful observation by using sensory prompts like “What do you see today that you’ve never noticed before?”
No matter what, be certain to include moments of silence. In these quiet moments, students will learn the joy of deepening their focus. An outdoor sensory walk can turn the school day into a peaceful, mindful experience that deepens students’ connection to the natural world.
Strategy #2: Bring the woods to you
Teachers can extend the benefits of forest bathing by bringing the woods into the classroom. It’s mindfulness meets “nature decor,” and yes, the fake plants count too!
Create nature soundscapes
Throughout the day, play soft background music with forest sounds like birdsong, rustling leaves, or gentle streams. One of my favorites for the classroom is Calmsound. This website has every nature-infused background sound you could imagine, from ocean waves to the Antarctic wind. I have used these recordings as writing prompts by asking students to write a story that matches the sound.
Add forest-inspired visuals
There is no need to take down your beloved word walls or those expertly crafted anchor charts. But consider adding some tree-themed visuals to create a calming, nature-inspired vibe. Think posters of lush forests, pictures of majestic trees, or even a small indoor plant to add a pop of green. Easy-to-care-for options like pothos and snake plants are perfect for even the most plant-challenged among us.
Don’t forget your tactile learners
You don’t need to hug an actual tree to experience the benefits of the forest in school. Bring the sense of touch to life in your classroom by having students create leaf rubbings with crayons and paper, exploring textures while simultaneously discovering nature’s unique patterns! Fill sensory bins with natural objects like pine cones, smooth stones, or moss (real or faux).
Incorporate nature learning
Forest-bathing principles can bring lessons to life across subjects and grade levels while fostering a sense of mindfulness.
Reading and writing sessions can feature nature-themed prompts. For example, ask students to describe a walk through a forest or imagine life as a tree. Science lessons can dive into tree ecosystems, exploring photosynthesis, habitats, and the interconnectedness of nature. Even math lessons can get a woodland twist by measuring leaves or calculating tree heights. And all of this together can connect students with the natural world in meaningful, calming ways.
By bringing the outdoors in, the classroom can become a peaceful, engaging space that fosters creativity and inspires a connection to nature.
Bringing the principles of forest bathing into your classroom isn’t about trekking deep into the woods. (Although that would be super cool!) It’s about creating mindful moments that help students and teachers breathe a little easier.
Whether it’s a sensory walk outside, nature-inspired decor inside, or simple hands-on activities that mimic the forest experience, these small steps can have giant-redwood-style benefits. Improved focus, reduced stress, and a greater sense of connection to the natural world, no hiking boots required, will improve everyone’s school day!
So, whether you’re offering the sound of rustling leaves in the background or studying your region’s climate by observing tree rings, you’re fostering an environment where both learning and well-being can thrive!
