You might’ve heard the term forest bathing floating around lately. It sounds kind of luxurious, maybe even a little mysterious. It’s a wellness trend that started in Japan, called shinrin-yoku. And no, there’s no bathtub involved. The practice is all about slowing down and soaking in the natural world with all your senses. It’s not about going for a hike, counting steps, or checking off a self-care box. It’s about letting the textures, scents, and quiet sounds of nature calm your mind and body.
People are talking about it more because, honestly, everyone’s feeling a little frazzled. Shinrin-yoku offers a gentle reset. Not with effort or planning, but with presence. The good news? You don’t need to wander through a forest to feel its effects. You can recreate the mood at home, in your own space, with some simple shifts that feel surprisingly comforting.
Start with light. Think about that soft, dappled sunlight you get under tree branches. You can mimic it indoors using sheer curtains, natural shadows from plants, or warm string lights. The goal is not brightness. It’s atmosphere. A glow that’s easy on the eyes and soft on the spirit.

Then add texture. Nature is layered and imperfect, and your space can be too. Try a bamboo mat under your feet, a linen pillow on your favorite chair, or a woven basket holding pinecones or books. Even just adding a vase with backyard greenery or a found branch makes a difference. These touches ground your space and gently shift its energy.
Sound and scent are worth tuning into. Play a forest-inspired soundtrack in the background — birds, breeze, or trickling water. Let it become part of your surroundings. Add a woodsy candle or a few drops of pine or cedarwood in your diffuser. If there’s a summer storm, crack a window and let nature take over for a while.

And then, comfort. Pajamas absolutely play a role here. The softer, the better. Breathable fabrics can help your body relax and remind you that you don’t need to be anywhere else. Whether you’re sipping something warm, journaling, stretching on the floor, or simply sitting with stillness, pajamas turn those minutes into a moment. They set the tone without saying a word.
Shinrin-yoku at home is casual, intuitive, and completely yours. There’s no wrong way to do it. Light a candle. Sit by a plant. Listen to the rain. Take a deep breath and do nothing at all. It counts.
If summer feels fast and loud, this is your invitation to slow down. Build a patch of peace right where you are. Your mind will thank you. And your pajamas? They’re more than cozy. They’re part of the ritual.