SCCalm

HEALING STARTS WHERE THE WILD BEGINS Words by Yuka Greer

INTRODUCTION to FOREST BATHING in SOUTH CAROLINA In a world that never seems to slow down, it’s easy to feel like you're constantly on the go—caught up in the rush of daily life.

Between work, social commitments, and the constant buzz of technology, it can be hard to find a moment of peace. But what if the simple act of stepping into nature could help you press “pause” and recharge your body and mind?

That’s where forest bathing comes in.

Forest bathing, or *Shinrin-yoku*, is a practice that invites you to connect with nature in a deeply mindful way. It’s not about hiking or exercising; it’s about slowing down, taking a deep breath, and allowing the sights, sounds, touches, and smells of nature to wash over you. In South Carolina, where the natural beauty is abundant from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, forest bathing offers an opportunity to step outside, breathe fresh air, and rediscover the healing power of nature.

WHAT'S FOREST BATHING? If you’ve ever wandered through woods and felt a deep sense of peace settle over you, then you’ve already experienced a version of "forest bathing." But what if we told you that by intentionally immersing yourself in nature, you can tap into a powerful, scientifically proven way to reduce stress, enhance your well-being, and foster a deeper relationship with the natural world?

Welcome to the practice of *Shinrinyoku*—or forest bathing—and it’s exactly what your mind and body need right now.

Forest bathing originated in Japan in the 1980s, when the Forestry Agency promoted it as an outdoor recreational activity, taking advantage of the country's vast forested areas. By the 2000s, as stress-related illnesses became more common with the rise of computer technology, people began to see forest bathing as a simple yet powerful practice for physical and mental wellness.

In the United States, this practice evolved to “forest therapy” which offers a structured and guided experience led by trained professionals who facilitate deeper interactions with nature.

As you enter nature, a shift begins almost immediately. You notice the air, thick with the scent of earth, saltwater, or fresh greenery, inviting you to breathe deeply.

The sounds of the outside world fade away, replaced by the soft rustling of leaves, distant birdsong, or the rhythmic crash of waves on the shore. Your mind starts to quiet as you naturally slow your pace, drawn into the rhythm of your surroundings. Each step feels more intentional, as if nature itself is guiding you to a deeper state of awareness, helping you reconnect with a sense of calm and presence. The more time you spend immersed in the natural world—whether in a forest, along a beach, or in a meadow—the more your senses sharpen, and the weight of stress and distraction begins to lift. There’s no rush, no pressure. You’re not here to check things off a list. Instead, you’re here to truly *be* in nature—absorbing the energy around you, relaxing, and letting your mind calm.

BENEFITS

REDUCES STRESS Helps to promote relaxation and mental clarity.

INCREASES CONNECTION

IMPROVES MOOD

Fosters a deeper connection with the environment, promoting a sense of calmness and belonging.

Helps to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.

ENHANCES CREATIVITY Encourages mindfulness, sparking creativity and problem-solving.

At the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor (SCNHC), publisher of The Southern Edge Magazine, we deeply care about the people and the land of South Carolina. Since our founding, we've been dedicated to celebrating and preserving the natural, historical, and cultural beauty of our communities.

With our new initiative, SC Calm, we continue this mission by addressing one of today’s most pressing challenges: mental health. We recognize the importance of slowing down in a fast-paced world, and through SC Calm, we aim to offer a peaceful refuge by connecting people with the healing power of nature. By promoting the practice of both forest bathing and forest therapy, we’re leveraging the abundant natural resources in South Carolina to help individuals find moments of tranquility, balance, and restoration.

Join us in this journey to reconnect with the land and with ourselves. To learn more, visit sccalm.org.

MEET YUKA Born and raised in Japan, Yuka spent much of her professional life bridging cultures and industries. After building a career in the international automotive sector in the US, she pivoted to the nonprofit world, where she deepened her passion for connecting people to nature. For the past decade, she has worked behind the scenes in finance with the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor, but it was her love for the outdoors that ultimately shaped her life’s purpose.

Now a certified Forest Therapy Guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, Yuka is dedicated to spreading the transformative benefits of forest bathing in South Carolina. Drawing from her Japanese heritage and the concept of ikigai—her life’s purpose—she seeks to inspire others to reconnect with nature and experience its profound impact on wellbeing. With a deep belief in the restorative power of the natural world, she is on a mission to help people slow down, heal, and find balance in today’s fast-paced world.