11 Natural Ways Forest Stays Can Reset Your Energy

2. Forest Bathing and Mental Health Gains

Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is a mindful practice of being present in forest settings and paying attention to the senses. Studies and guided programs report reductions in stress hormones, lowered blood pressure, and improved mood after guided or solo sessions. In practice, forest bathing emphasizes slow walking, quiet observation, and deep breathing rather than rigorous hiking. Pairing a forest-bathing session with an overnight stay deepens the effect because the restorative experience continues through the night and into morning light exposure. Many retreats combine gentle yoga, guided meditation, and nature walks to create a layered wellness experience that supports both sleep and daytime calm. If you’re new to the practice, start with short 20–30 minute sessions in the afternoon or early evening, then slow down in the hours before bedtime to preserve the relaxed state. Visitors often report clearer thinking, lighter stress, and a deeper, more regular sleep after even a single guided forest-bathing session during a stay.