Hamburg Sachsenwald: Nature trend strengthens psyche and immune system

People who spend time in the forest live healthier lives. And very close to Hamburg there is a particularly large forest that is ideal for taking part in the forest bathing trend.

The wind rustles through the leaves on the ground, a bird chirps, sunlight diffuses through the trees: forests convey an enormous sense of calm. And this can even be measured. Studies show that spending time in the forest can have a positive effect on the psyche and the immune system. In Japan, this has become a trend: Shinrin Yoku stands for intensively absorbing the forest atmosphere. In Germany, this is called forest bathing.

If you want to delve deep into the forest in Hamburg, you can do so in the Sachsenwald. The forest is located east of the city and can also be easily reached by train. The S21 takes you to Aumühle in 30 minutes, running every 20 minutes. From there, you can walk into the Sachsenwald. Forest lovers can hike through the forest on almost 60 square kilometers.

But wait: you shouldn’t go hiking. Forest bathing only works at a snail’s pace. “In contrast to hiking, the focus of forest bathing is on exploring nature without rushing or pressure. All of your senses are involved,” writes the Schleswig-Holstein local transport association on its website. You should smell and taste, feel and hear. Over time, this will lead to deep relaxation, “which reduces stress hormones, calms nerve activity and strengthens the entire immune system.” You can also take off your shoes and experience the soft mossy ground.

A total of six circular routes are signposted, such as the Kingfisher Trail. On this path, Prince Bismarck discovered a spring that still bears his name today and supplies spring water. The route has a total length of 8.6 kilometers. If that is too long for you, you can hike the 4.5 kilometer long Schlangenweg. This started in Friedrichsruh. The hiking trail got its name because it meanders through the so-called Aumühler Grüben.

If you don’t want to try forest bathing on your own, you can join a guided tour. Kathrin Sohst, a certified forest bathing and forest therapy guide, offers a 3.5-hour tour from Aumühle. The dates start in October.