Forest baths in Euskadi.

Forest baths in Euskadi, sensory experiences in the middle of nature.

The forest baths in Euskadi are part of the new sensory experiences of the Basque Country. A different and revitalizing activity, which has come to stay. Thanks to this experience, there are many people who have managed to disconnect from the daily routine and connect with nature. It is time to slow down and feel. The breeze, the sun and the birds singing accompany us in this new adventure in Euskadi. It’s time to close our eyes, feel the breath and relax.Thanks to the goodness of nature, this experience originating in Japan is spreading around the world. Known as Shinrin Yoku in Japan, this activity is considered one of the best options for people affected by stress, anxiety and other diseases related to the nervous system to alleviate their effects. Of course, we must make it clear that this activity is not a substitute for any medication, but a complement. And it is that, according to studies carried out in different countries, forest baths contribute to fight against some of these diseases. What do you think? Do you dare to enjoy a forest bath in the Basque Country?

The Forestry Agency of Japan was responsible for popularizing these forest walks. Small routes, which, led by experts, invite us to relax and enjoy a rewarding day for body and soul.

History of forest baths.

The Forestry Agency of Japan created the forest baths in 1982. With this proposal they would achieve two objectives: to enhance the value of the large area of forests in the country and to alleviate the spread of stress among its inhabitants. It is important to point out that the therapeutic effects of these experiences have been investigated by the Japanese government throughout its history. An example of this is the physiologically and psychologically based study by Chiba University. Several indicators collected from these studies, make us think that this activity contributes to a remarkable improvement in our physical and mental health. In any case, forest baths have spread from Japan to the whole world creating a current that favors the health of all of us.

Forest baths in Euskadi.

The forest baths in Euskadi seek to awaken the senses, to establish a link with each of the elements of nature that surround us. For this, the experts of Ekobideak encourage us to go into our natural environments dressed with our best tools: the 5 senses. This is how this activity, originally from the East, has joined other common activities in the Basque Country such as mountaineering or hiking.Forest bathing in the Basque Country has found a great ally in the region of Busturialdea – Urdaibai . And thanks to the natural wealth of this region of Euskadi, forest baths are carried out in luxurious settings. Authentic oasis of peace.The forest baths are not only thought to be carried out inside a forest, any natural space can be the scene of these experiences. Currently, we have the possibility of carrying out guided forest baths in Arratzu, Gernika and Murueta. After the success of this experience, we are sure that in the near future we will carry out forest baths in other corners of our territory. We advise you to be attentive to our social networks(Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube) to be updated on all of them.These reflective walks contribute to relax body and mind in search of a better mood and physical state. At the end of the forest bath, we will be aware that we have rarely paid so much attention to everything around us. As you have been able to see during this activity we must forget the clock and the rush to pay more attention and time to everything that surrounds us. An activity that should be done in silence, calmly, without distractions. Are you in?

Reserve forest baths.

If you want to feel nature, if you want to be part of these experiences, we encourage you to reserve a place in one of the many outings that are held in different areas of the Basque Country. You can do it safely, quickly and without commissions in our reservation center, here. If you have any questions, we recommend that you use the comments system that you will find at the end of this article to let us know. We will try to respond as soon as possible.

Opinion forest bath.

The forest baths is an activity that pursues personal wellness as other concepts already entrenched in our country as yoga or meditation. An experience that anyone can question. That is what we did. But after reading the scientific studies and the analytical results obtained in studies such as the one carried out in Euskadi by AVIFES, we gave it a deserved chance. We encourage you to do the same. We look forward to hearing your opinions!

Benefits of forest bathing.

As we have indicated above, several scientifically based studies conducted at international level indicate that forest baths have multiple benefits for the human being. Here are some of them. Remember that the first sessions of forest baths are always recommended to be accompanied by a local guide.

As you can see forest baths are positive for any person, especially those who feel they have a deficit of nature, addition to technologies, work stress … We must indicate that at the level of Euskadi, AVIFES, a non-profit organization, has conducted a study which reflects the impact that forest baths have on the health of people with mental illness. The conclusions section is really interesting. Recommended reading.In case you want to find out more about the studies carried out on this therapy, we advise you to search for “the effects of shinrin-yoku” on the internet. There is a good number of scientifically based articles that will be able to clarify any doubts. Since 2018, different bathing sessions have been taking place in the Basque Country with groups of people with mental problems. These sessions have been of great help for this group. Reason, for which it has been decided to extend the forest baths to all people who so wish.

Advice and questions about forest baths in the Basque Country.

We believe that this section may be of interest to all those people who have not been initiated in this type of experience. Here are some tips and frequently asked questions about forest baths. In case we do not clear up your doubts, we advise you to use the comment system that you will find at the end of this article. We will try to respond as soon as possible.

Ekobideak.

The guides of Ekobideak, the company responsible for this experience, have been trained under the Busturialdea – Urdaibai Nature and Forest Baths Tourist Destination Certification. This certification granted by the Forest Baths Institute and the Urremendi Rural Development Agency, identifies those people who know the techniques of this international movement. This small Basque company has been showing some of the most interesting corners of our land for years. Since then, young and old alike have praised their good work, and it must be for a reason, right? We recommend you to take a look at the rest of the activities they offer, we are sure that their competitive prices and their theme will attract you. Be careful, they will get you hooked.

What to see in Urdaibai.

We recommend you to merge the benefits of nature with those offered by gastronomy and history. Urdaibai is a magical, impressive space. A small corner of our land that will encourage us to stretch our legs and enjoy each of its charms. Here is a small summary of what you can find in this Biosphere Reserve.

Video of forest bathing in Euskadi.

As usual we wanted to complement the words and photographs of this article with a small audiovisual in which you can appreciate the essence of the forest baths in Euskadi. A video that we hope will help you to get a more real idea of what awaits you during this experience. In case you like this kind of videos we encourage you to subscribe to our YouTube channel, we are sure that our videos will help you to choose your next destination.

Forest baths in Euskadi represent one of the best options to relieve tension and stress through the charms of nature. It’s time to feel everything that surrounds us, it’s time to let go, it’s time to disconnect. Ondo pasa!