Why spending time in the woods makes you feel calm

Why spending time in the woods makes you feel calm

From Life Kit by NPR

June 1, 2026 · 16 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the health benefits of spending time in the woods, particularly through the practice of forest bathing.

Decades of research have shown that "forest bathing" is good for your health. It can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure and help with depression. Here's how to reap these benefits on your next walk in the woods. This episode originally published August 24, 2023. Follow us on Instagram: @nprlifekit Sign up for our newsletter here. Have an episode idea or feedback you want to share? Email us at lifekit@npr.org Support the show and listen to it sponsor-free by signing up for Life Kit+ at plus.npr.org/lifekit See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences. NPR Privacy Policy

People in this episode

Host: NPR Life Kit

Topics covered

  • forest bathing
  • health benefits
  • nature therapy
  • mental health
  • wellness

Keywords

  • forest bathing
  • health
  • immune system
  • blood pressure
  • depression
  • nature
  • wellness

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NPR

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