Forest Bathing and Forest Therapy in Hong Kong: A Journey Back to Nature

My connection to nature wasn’t always like this. I grew up as a suburban kid who spent most of his time playing video games. It wasn’t until I found a home in Hawai‘i that something within me began to awaken. Hiking through her forests, swimming in her oceans, feeling her winds on my face as I traversed her ridges, riding her waves, and strolling her beaches—I felt alive in a way I never had before.

I developed a deep love for the ʻāina, for Hawai‘i, and I knew that I must protect what I loved. This is aloha ʻāina—a love and respect for the land that stays with me to this day.

Discovering Forest Bathing and Forest Therapy

At the time, forest therapy and forest bathing weren’t part of my consciousness. That changed when I stumbled upon a wellness article about a man in Maui who guided people into the forest to practice forest bathing. It felt different—almost exotic—yet deeply peaceful. I remember thinking, I’d love to try that someday.

That day didn’t come until much later.

Life unfolded in unexpected ways. I went through a divorce, worked with depression, grief, and shame, and eventually found mindfulness. I traveled the world, reflecting on how I wanted to live the next chapter of my life. I eventually landed in Hong Kong, after meeting my partner on the Routeburn Track in Aotearoa.

As I settled into this fast-paced city, I finally had space to pause and reflect. I knew I wanted to be of service—to support others who might also be struggling with their mental health and who felt ready for the journey within. After experiencing so many beautiful natural spaces around the world, I also knew that nature therapy would be part of this path.

Aloha ʻāina had never left me.

What Is Forest Therapy (Shinrin Yoku)?

A chance conversation with a dear friend and teacher brought everything full circle. She mentioned forest bathing, also known as shinrin yoku, a Japanese nature therapy practice rooted in slowing down and engaging the senses.

I remembered that article I had read years earlier. After researching forest therapy more deeply, I decided to give it a try. I never imagined how transformative it would be.

In becoming a forest therapy guide, I was invited back into relationship with Mother Nature—this time without expectations, goals, or outcomes. I learned how to simply be.

Forest therapy is a guided, evidence-based nature therapy practice that helps people reconnect with the more-than-human world—and with their own true nature. As a guide, I invite people to slow down, awaken their senses, and immerse themselves fully in the present moment.

Why Forest Bathing Matters in a City Like Hong Kong

In today’s society—especially in a city like Hong Kong—we are constantly stimulated, distracted by our devices, and pressured to move faster. Chronic stress from overwork and sensory overload takes a serious toll on our nervous systems and overall health.

It’s no surprise that the World Health Organization reports that over one billion people worldwide are affected by mental health challenges.

Forest bathing offers a gentle yet powerful antidote.

When we spend time in a forest or natural environment, we begin to experience the benefits of slowing down. Emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually, forest therapy creates space for quiet, clarity, and inner spaciousness. Without expectations or judgment, there’s nowhere to go and nothing to achieve—just yourself, the trees, and the present moment.

In contrast to the constant hustle of city life, this can feel deeply liberating.

The Science-Backed Benefits of Forest Therapy

Doctors in Japan have long understood the healing power of nature. Shinrin yoku is commonly prescribed as a preventative and supportive health practice.

Research shows that when we walk in forests, we inhale phytoncides—natural compounds released by trees to protect themselves from disease. When humans are exposed to phytoncides, our bodies respond with measurable benefits, including:

• Strengthened immune system function

• Reduced stress hormones

• Improved mood and emotional regulation

• Support for depression and anxiety

• Better sleep quality

• Increased feelings of calm and clarity

These benefits make nature therapy an effective complement to modern mental health care.

On a personal level, whenever I feel overwhelmed or emotionally charged, stepping into a park or natural space—even briefly—helps me return to balance. The fresh air, trees, and birdsong remind me of something ancient and true.

Our ancestors knew this all along: nature heals.

An Invitation to Slow Down and Reconnect

What began as a passing curiosity has become a full-circle journey. From reading about forest bathing many years ago to now sharing the practice of forest therapy with others, I continue to be humbled by its power and simplicity.

If you’re living in Hong Kong and feeling stressed, disconnected, or longing for more spaciousness in your life, forest bathing may be an invitation worth accepting.

Here is my invitation to you:

Slow down. Breathe. Connect. And just be.