We explore a beautiful home in the peaceful forest in Japan, which embodies the concept of “forest bathing”. But what is forest bathing?
In our modern world, many of us spend the majority of our time indoors, surrounded by technology and artificial lighting. While this lifestyle has its benefits, it can also be draining, leading to stress and burnout. In recent years, the concept of “forest bathing” has gained popularity as a way to counteract these negative effects and connect with nature.
So, what exactly is forest bathing? The term originated in Japan, where it is known as shinrin-yoku, and refers to the practice of spending time in a forest or other natural environment, immersing oneself in the sights, sounds, and scents of nature. The goal is to slow down, quiet the mind, and let go of stress, allowing the healing power of nature to take over.
Research has shown that forest bathing has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. For example, spending time in nature has been shown to lower cortisol levels, which is a hormone associated with stress. It can also improve heart rate variability, which is a measure of the heart’s ability to adapt to stress. Forest bathing has also been shown to boost the immune system, improve mood, and increase creativity.
One of the key elements of forest bathing is mindfulness. Instead of rushing through the forest, snapping photos and checking your phone, the goal is to slow down and be present in the moment. This means paying attention to your breath, observing the details of the environment around you, and taking time to truly appreciate the beauty of nature. By doing so, you can calm your mind, reduce anxiety, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.
This beautiful home in the Nagano prefecture in Japan has the perfect forest bathing aesthetic. The house has a clean, spare aesthetic, allowing lots of natural light to enter, and features high ceilings that feel open, fresh, and accentuate the forest surroundings.
“Founders of the Tokyo practice, Makoto Takei and Chie Nabeshima, designed the Ring House in 2006, with bands of glass on all four sides. It is located in Karuizawa – a famous resort town about an hour from Tokyo, offering cool summer weather and beautiful mountainous scenery. John Lennon and Yoko Ono reportedly spent several summers there in a holiday home belonging to one of Ono’s relatives.
Soaring upwards, like the surrounding trees, the 1,097 sq ft Nagano property is set across three storeys. Its design lends itself to forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, without stepping outside, as living spaces are bathed in dabbled light through the foliage.”
If you could see yourself in this peaceful space, you’re in luck. It’s for sale from List Sotheby’s International Realty for $1,540,616.
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