Into the Green: Western Ghats Forest Bathing Emerges as New Wellness Trend

Image Source: The Hindu

In a wonderful intersection of wellness and tradition, 'forest bathing' is flowering throughout the Western Ghats as people increasingly look towards healing through immersion in nature. This ancient tradition, rooted in the form of Japanese 'Shinrin-yoku', is now gaining momentum with local, conservation and wellness efforts of the present times to facilitate mindful moments spent in the rich biodiversity of the Ghats.

What's New?
Guided Forest Bathing Walks and Wellness Retreats: More and more, retreats offer guided forest bathing walks in forested ecosystems like Wayanad, Agumbe, and Kodaikanal. Walkers unwind, inhale, and engage their senses deliberately, less tense and with more clarity.

Forest Departments Step into Action: The Department of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has recommended opening more 'Nandan Vans' (nature centers) to make forest bathing in and around cities along the Western Ghats available.

Community and Conservation Initiatives: Locals and non-profits work together to plant native flora, replace monoculture, and incorporate forest bathing activities to engage humans with the restorative properties of native diversity.

Why It Matters Scientifically-supported Benefits: Studies indicate that forest bathing reduces cortisol levels (stress hormones), improves mental health, and fosters peace and mindfulness—a necessity in today's busy world.

Unearthing ancient knowledge: Indian nature-integrated healing and meditation practices seamlessly transition into this modern wellness movement, solidifying the area's reputation as a sanctuary for mind-body balance.

Conservation Sensitization: Forest bathing sensitizes the tourists to the fragile ecosystem of the Ghats and promotes eco-tourism and ecosystem restoration.

Key Highlights

Emergence of the new forest bathing retreats and centres, in the Western Ghats.

Periodic group walks and meditation sessions increase, especially around hotspots of biodiversity.

Forest officials extend conservation-linked wellness programs.

Patients have reported better health and reduced stress after sessions.

Conservationists are stressing the dual imperative of inner restoration and rehabilitation of habitat.

Source: Times of India, Flying Squirrel Holidays, PENDOWN, NDTV, Global Landscapes Forum