Book Review 002 : Forest Bathing: The Rejuvenating Practice of Shirin Yoku

Author: Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles

Genre: Self Development

Date finished: Aug 2020

It feels like walking in the forest on a calm-hazy morning. It was an eye-opener and I am divulged by the secret about the wilderness of Japanese’ forest. One day, I drove to my boarding house after work for 8 hours, I passed many trees and untreated garden while I was reading this book. I know I am in the middle of the road, but I also could feel that I am walking the forest at that moment. Enjoy the fresh air, mildew-scented trees, and warm sun light. That’s why I’m in love with this book.

Hector Garcia is the author of several bestselling self-development books including Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life (translated to 57 languages); The Ichigo Ichie: The Arts of Making the Most of Every Moment, the Japanese Way; and The Ikigai Journey: A Practical Guide to Finding Happiness and Purpose the Japanese Way.

Some plant kingdoms contain phytoncides which is volatile natural poison that are expelled to protect themselves when they’re attacked by fungi, bacteria or animals. Fruits and vegetables that are extremely rich in phytoncides are onions, potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, red peppers, apples, strawberries, grapes, citrus.

How the Book Changed Me & My Reflection

1. I believe when we tempted to spend our time and energy to nature, it will give us back the form of abundance such as health, happiness and inspiration.

2. Everything in this world works by its portion. There are toxic substances but at the right dosage they’re good for us.

Practicing shirin yoku can be done at home as well because we can’t get to the forest as much as we would like due to routines or where we live. If that so, we can absorb some of its serenity through television by documentaries. By having houseplants, it can improves air quality and absorb dioxide by photosynthesis an releases necessary oxygen. In addition, essential oil also have the ability to enhance our mood. All you need is turn on the diffuser for al half an hour and the steam will last for three or four hours.