BBC Explores the Healing Power of Trees: Unveiling the World of Forest Bathing BBC’s “People Fixing the World Podcast” recently explored the healing power of…

BBC Explores the Healing Power of Trees: Unveiling the World of Forest Bathing

BBC’s “People Fixing the World Podcast” recently explored the healing power of trees, a topic that might surprise you. The podcast episode delves into the concept of forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku in Japanese, which involves spending time in nature to improve mental health and well-being. The episode covers the science behind forest bathing, its origins, and its current use in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and addiction.

Costa Rica Treatment Center, Manuela Siegfried


Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku in Japanese, is commonly described as spending time in nature to improve mental health and well-being. This podcast episode explores the science behind forest bathing, a brief history of its beginnings, and how it’s currently being used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. Throughout the episode, we are immersed in a forest bathing experience led by Manuela Siegfried, our forest bathing guide at Costa Rica Treatment Center.

The BBC episode features insights and participation from Dr. Qing Li, the founder of the Japanese Society of Forest Therapy, and Gary Evans, the co-founder of the Forest Bathing Institute in the UK, who further establish the credibility of the healing power of trees. Patients at Costa Rica Treatment Center have expressed their gratitude for the experience, and many report an improved mood following this treatment.


Dr. Quing Li
Gary Evans

On the BBC podcast, the center’s clinical director explains that forest bathing can help individuals struggling with addiction better regulate their emotions. Studies have found that spending time in nature can reduce cravings and improve mental health in those recovering from addiction. It can also increase feelings of awe, which can be a powerful tool in addiction therapy. At Costa Rica Treatment Center, forest therapy has become one of the many tools used to combat relapsing, and it has proven effective in helping patients regulate their emotions and improve their communication and self-reflection skills long after treatment.

In addition to its potential benefits for addiction therapy, forest bathing has also been shown to be helpful for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It can improve mood and increase feelings of connectedness, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals in recovery. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or addiction, spending time in a natural setting could be a helpful addition to your treatment plan. Whether it’s taking a hike in the woods, going for a walk in a park, or simply sitting outside and appreciating the beauty of nature, connecting with the natural world can have a positive impact on your mental health and well-being.

BBC podcast - Forest therapy - Costa Rica Treatment Center

If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or addiction, spending time in a natural setting may be a helpful addition to your treatment plan. Whether it’s taking a hike in the woods, going for a walk in a park, or simply sitting outside and enjoying the beauty of nature, connecting with the natural world can be a powerful tool in improving mental health and well-being. In the words of Gary Evans, keeping it simple, finding a tree or a park and appreciating it, taking a few deep breaths, or touching it, can have a positive impact on your mental health as you go on through the day-by-day. 

To listen to the complete podcast episode of People Fixing the World: The Healing Power of Trees, click here. Remember, as Gary Evans wisely said, “keeping it simple” and finding a tree or park to appreciate, taking a few deep breaths or touching it, can have a positive impact on your mental health as you go through your day.
For more information on Costa Rica Treatment Center, our programs, treatment model, facilities, and health professionals, click here.

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