This modern take on an ancient practice got its start in Japan in 1982, when the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries began promoting walks in the woods as a tonic for mind and body. About a decade ago, they also began funding research into the health effects of “forest therapy,” and the practice has been catching on all over Asia, as well as North America and Europe. Source: Forest Therapy: A Walk In The Wood Is The Perfect Prescription