Forest bathing, also known as forest bathing, is the Japanese practice of immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. And as the daughter of a forest manager who grew up “slow hiking” through the woods, I deeply understand the benefits.
But don’t just take my word for it. Multiple research studies have concluded that spending just 10 conscious minutes a day in the woods can help improve sleep, boost immunity, and reduce anxiety. Imagine what students could accomplish by sleeping better and sniffing less often. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t need a little stress relief? (Including the teacher, right?)
It doesn’t matter if your school is located in a pine forest or in a concrete jungle. There are many ways to make forest bathing effective for you and your students. (Spoiler alert: fresh air works wonders everywhere!)
©Steffy McCourt
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 the experience to any developmental level.
For younger students, add some playfulness. Ask them to use their “extra senses” to find specific colors, hear sounds, and feel textures (such as tree bark or moss).
Upper elementary and middle school students love looking for patterns, counting sounds, and sketching observations in their journals. I have taken my middle school students on seasonal sensory walks and they have produced some wonderful poems.
High school students can go further by identifying outdoor figures near their school. Teachers can encourage this type of learning by getting outdoors frequently. Encourage careful observation using sensory prompts such as “What do you see today that you didn’t notice before?”
In any case, be sure to set aside a period of silence. During this quiet time, students learn the joy of deepening their concentration. Outdoor sensory walks can deepen students’ connection to the natural world and transform the school day into a peaceful, mindful experience.
Strategy #2: Bring the forest home
Teachers can extend the benefits of forest bathing even further by bringing the forest into the classroom. It’s a blend of mindfulness and “natural decoration”, and of course, fake plants are key too.
create a natural soundscape
Play soft background music throughout the day, including forest sounds such as chirping birds, rustling leaves, and a gentle stream. One of my favorite things in the classroom is Calmsound. This website includes background sounds that incorporate every kind of nature you can imagine, from ocean waves to Antarctic winds. I used these recordings as writing prompts by having students write stories that matched the sounds.
Add a forest-inspired visual
There’s no need to get rid of your favorite word wall or well-crafted anchor chart. However, consider adding some tree-themed visuals to create a calm, nature-inspired atmosphere. Think posters of lush forests, photos of majestic trees, or even small houseplants to add some greenery. Easy-care plants like pothos and snake plants are perfect for even the most plant-phobic.
Don’t forget your tactile learners
You don’t have to hug an actual tree to experience the benefits of the forest at school. Bring tactility to life in your classroom by having students rub leaves with crayons and paper to explore texture and discover nature’s unique patterns at the same time. Fill the sensory container with natural objects such as pine cones, smooth stones, and moss (real or fake).
Incorporate natural learning
The principles of forest bathing can enliven classes across subjects and grades while fostering a sense of mindfulness.
Literacy sessions can feature nature-themed prompts. For example, have students describe a walk in the forest or imagine life as a tree. Science lessons take you deep into the tree ecosystem, exploring photosynthesis, habitat, and the interrelationships of nature. Even in math class, you can enjoy the atmosphere of a forest by measuring leaves and calculating the height of trees. All of this comes together to connect students with the natural world in meaningful and calming ways.
By bringing the outdoors in, your classroom becomes a peaceful and inviting space that fosters creativity and inspires a connection with nature.
©Steffy McCourt
Incorporating forest bathing principles into the classroom is not a walk deep into the forest. (Although that’s pretty cool!) It’s all about creating mindful moments that help students and teachers breathe a little easier.
Whether it’s a sensory walk outdoors, indoor decor inspired by nature, or simple hands-on activities that mimic a forest experience, these small steps will bring you the benefits of giant sequoia style. Improve your concentration, reduce stress, and feel more connected to the natural world. No hiking boots required. This improves everyone’s school experience.
So by hearing leaves rustle in the background or observing tree rings to learn about the local climate, you’re fostering an environment where both learning and well-being can thrive.
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