Views 219
Nature & Adventure

"Forest bathing", experience body-mind-mind balance in Phu Quoc

Translated by Bing
"Forest bathing" is also known as shinrin-yoku. It means "immersing" or participating in activity in the forest with all the senses. Some of the benefits that "forest bathing" brings can be mentioned as: enhancing immune system function, improving mental health, reducing blood pressure,...

The term 'Shinrin Yoku' originated in Japan meaning 'immerse yourself in forest space with all senses' or 'Forest Bathing'. It is a place where we can smell the flowers, enjoy the fresh air, watch the trees change color, listen to the birds singing and feel the breeze caressing on our skin. And when our senses are opened, we begin to connect with the natural world.


Since the 1980s, Japan's Ministry of Agriculture has encouraged people to connect with nature with this special health therapy. Through the experience of returning to the jungle, people not only improve their physical but also improve their mental health. Currently, the art of forest bathing is widespread and popular not only in Japan but also in countries such as the United States, Korea and Taiwan.



For millennia, people have always connected with nature from every breath and feel indescribable comfort when immersed in nature. That never changes. When reminiscing about peaceful memories, there will always be childhood images of playing in the countryside or playing by the fish pond. Life is so hustle and bustle that we no longer know how to be quiet, daily tasks require us to sit at the screen all day long. Once caught up in the chaos of work, it's hard for us to slow down. 


Forest bathing is not a bath in the middle of the forest, the art of forest bathing is the art of connecting with nature through all senses, truly immersing yourself in mother nature in body and soul. Journey back to the forest, spiritual practice will bring balance, open up inspiration and release positive energies within you.


If you are an office worker who aspires to refresh yourself, to become healthier and happier, look to Shinrin Yoku as therapy to create new energy. 



This is easy to experience and inexpensive. You do not have to camp or stay too long in the forest, but you can take a walk, breathe fresh air here is also "forest bathing".


Phu Quoc (Kien Giang) is not only famous for its beautiful beaches but also known for its old-growth forests. This will be the ideal place for you to experience "forest bathing", an activity that is difficult to do in big cities.


Phu Quoc primeval forest is located in Phu Quoc National Park, in the northeast of Phu Quoc island, about 35 km from Duong Dong town.

Because it is a primeval forest, this place almost retains its inherent ecosystem such as vegetation, animals, rivers and streams,... And there is very fresh air, very suitable conditions for carrying out "forest bathing".


To get here, you can choose to travel alone by motorbike or join the available primeval forest exploration tours. A one-day forest bathing tour. Amidst the green and cool space, immerse yourself in fresh nature and enjoy the smog-free world.



Note:


  • Sneakers fit well, lightweight for easy movement as you'll have to walk dirt roads and climb mountains quite a bit
  • It is recommended to choose clothes of moderate width, thin substance, easy to absorb sweat to be comfortable to move. Especially choose long clothes to avoid mosquito bites or insects in the forest. 
  • If you travel by motorbike yourself, you should check the gasoline, brakes, wheels before going because on the way if there is a problem, there will be no place to fix it. 
  • Be prepared with water and food as forest roads can be dehydrating and tiring.
  • Finally, get a good night's sleep and keep a relaxed spirit before the trip to have the power to explore all the primeval forests of Phu Quoc.


Lam Linh

Image source: Multiple authors
You may also like
Close