itswellness is a Specified Nonprofit Corporation (NPO) established by business people with a mission of bringing about a stress-free society through the healing force of nature. The business offers wellness tours that give individuals an opportunity to reconnect with nature, relax, and rejuvenate body and mind. These tours cater to participants of all types, from foreign tourists to local residents who have little time available, to those simply wanting a break from the demands of day-to-day living. All tour programs are designed to be inclusive and open to individuals of any age or origin. Under the guidance of professionals with knowledge of both the scientific and cultural realities of wellness, the tours focus on the inherent connection between nature and human well-being. Through such experiences with nature, itswellness promotes healthier lifestyles and mental and emotional wellness towards building a more balanced and harmonious society through authentic interaction with nature.

Find the Healing Power of Nature with the Wellness Tour

A rejuvenating experience calls foreign visitors to Japan with the "Wellness Tour with Shinrinyoku," a nature-themed experience that heals the body and awakens the mind. Organized in Japan's parks, woods, and traditional gardens, this wellness tour takes cues from the therapeutic practice of Shinrinyoku, or forest bathing. Nurtured in Japanese culture, forest bathing has gained global popularity due to its scientifically proven benefits—relief from stress, balancing autonomic nervous system, and immunity enhancement. The tour planning is done with utmost care to make it a relaxing, laid-back affair, not a hectic itinerary, so that the participants can completely unwind and connect with nature.

Guided by Experts and Personalized Care

Each tour is guided by a certified interpreter guide, wellness master, or Shinrinyoku specialist who acquaints participants with the site and inquires about their body condition and individual objectives for the day. For those interested, a pre-tour medical checkup is also offered to provide a safe and meaningful experience. At the start of the tour, participants are encouraged to immerse themselves in forest surroundings and slowly let go of stress in daily life.

Using All Five Senses

One important aspect of the wellness tour is stimulating the five senses. People slowly walk around the natural environment, noticing the vision of leaves, trees, and sky; the hearing of birds, rustling leaves, and water; the feeling of touching tree trunks or walking barefooted on grass; the smells of soil, flowers, and forest air; and even the flavor of forest fruits or indigenous food. This whole-sensory experience is key to finding a greater sense of presence and relaxation.

Deep Breathing and Restorative Relaxation

Halfway through the tour, there is a period of deep breathing and rest. Stretching out on the grass, participants breathe diaphragmatically and let nature's vitality heal their bodies. The group then expresses their personal feelings and experiences over tea or water, with space for reflection and connection.

Health Monitoring and Incorporating Wellness into Daily Habits

Finally, a follow-up health check after the tour is provided to monitor changes since the beginning of the tour. Not a medical evaluation, it gives insight into the wellness impact of the experience. The participants are encouraged to incorporate wellness into their daily habits by dedicating one to two hours per week to a local park or green area. For those who cannot travel in person, visual and virtual experiences of nature can be similarly beneficial, and internet tours employing this wellness approach are also on the horizon.

Aya Fukuda, Co-Founder

 “itswellness pursue to enhance the wellness of businesspeople by harnessing the healing power of nature.”