Humans are inextricably linked to Mother Nature – if we look after her, she’ll look after us. One of the many ways to experience this effect is through the Japanese practice of shinrin yoku, or ‘forest bathing’.

Developed in Japan in the 1980s, forest bathing simply means being in a natural space and experiencing its calming and rejuvenating effects. Shinrin yoku is said to boost the body’s immune system, reduce stress, increase energy and reduce blood pressure, among many more benefits.

As we approach Earth Day tomorrow, let’s take a look at some beautiful forests around the world that would be perfect for forest bathing.

1. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan

Kyoto's Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the city's most photographed sights. Image: Getty

2. Valley of Flowers National Park, India

Himalayan beauty in India's Valley of Flowers National Park in Uttarakhand.

3. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica

Wander through the treetops of Costa Rica's Cloud Forest. Image: Getty

4. Amazon Rainforest, Peru

Feel the serenity as you float along through Peruvian Amazon. Image: Getty

5. Daintree Rainforest, Australia

The Daintree is part of the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Site. Image: Getty

6. The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland

The picturesque Dark Hedges is an avenue of beech trees planted in the 18th century. Image: Getty

7. Crooked Forest, Poland

Pine trees have built-in seating in Poland's mysterious Crooked Forest. Image: Getty

8. Hallerbos, Belgium

Bluebells adorn this Belgian forest for a few weeks each spring. Image: Getty

9. Black Forest, Germany

Storybook scenes abound in Germany's Black Forest. Image: Getty

10. Redwood National Park, USA

Giant redwoods stand tall in the old-growth temperate rainforest of California. Image: Getty

11. Otzarreta Forest, Spain

Even in autumn, moss provides a vivid green accent in this Basque Country forest.

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