The idea of slowing down and immersing yourself in nature may sound simple, but in today’s hyper-connected world, it feels like a luxury. Enter forest bathing getaways, a wellness trend rooted in the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing.” Far from involving an actual bath, this ritual is about mindfully walking through forests, soaking in the sights, sounds, and scents of nature.
What began in Japan in the 1980s as a response to rising stress and burnout has now gone global, with dedicated retreats popping up everywhere from Scandinavia to New Zealand. And while Singapore may be known more for its skyscrapers than sprawling woodlands, the trend has quietly found its place here too.
Why Forest Bathing Works
Scientific studies have shown that spending time among trees can lower blood pressure, reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), and improve mood and focus. Phytoncides, natural compounds released by trees, are believed to boost immune function, while the sensory act of slowing down and paying attention to your surroundings enhances mindfulness.
For city dwellers constantly exposed to screens and noise, forest bathing is like pressing a mental reset button. Unlike hiking, it’s not about covering distance or burning calories, but about reconnecting with nature at a slower, more intentional pace.
The Local Appeal for Singaporeans
Singaporeans may not have towering alpine forests, but the city-state is often called a “City in Nature” for good reason. Local green spaces like the Southern Ridges, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, and Windsor Nature Park provide lush backdrops ideal for forest bathing experiences. Even the carefully curated Singapore Botanic Gardens or lesser-known gems like Dairy Farm Nature Park offer pockets of calm where visitors can practice the art of simply being present.
In recent years, wellness practitioners in Singapore have started offering guided forest bathing walks, helping participants tune into their senses, whether that’s noticing the way sunlight filters through leaves, listening to birdsong, or feeling the textures of tree bark. For busy professionals, these sessions provide a rare chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and disconnect from the city’s relentless pace.
Where to Try Forest Bathing
In Singapore:
- MacRitchie Reservoir Park – With its shaded trails and tranquil boardwalks, MacRitchie is perfect for slowing down and letting nature’s stillness wash over you.
- Bukit Timah Nature Reserve – Home to some of Singapore’s oldest rainforest, this spot is rich in biodiversity and ideal for mindful walks.
- Windsor Nature Park – Less crowded than MacRitchie, Windsor offers lush greenery and quiet paths, making it great for beginners.
- Southern Ridges – The forested sections, especially around HortPark and Kent Ridge, offer peaceful spaces away from the city buzz.
Short Getaways Nearby:
- Cameron Highlands, Malaysia – Just a few hours’ drive from Singapore, its cool climate and mossy forests make it a favourite for nature retreats.
- Endau-Rompin National Park, Malaysia – A less commercialised rainforest with ancient trees, waterfalls, and guided eco-tours perfect for forest immersion.
- Bali, Indonesia – Beyond the beaches, Bali’s Ubud region is surrounded by tropical forests where many retreats now include forest bathing and mindfulness walks.
As conversations around mental health and work-life balance grow louder in Singapore, more people are recognising that wellness doesn’t just come from gym memberships or spa treatments; it can also be found in something as timeless as walking among trees.
Forest bathing getaways tap into a universal desire to reconnect with nature, and in a city as fast-paced as Singapore, that makes them more relevant than ever. Whether it’s a guided session in MacRitchie Reservoir or a weekend trip to the highlands, the forest is calling, and this time, more people are answering.