We are growing closer to Health.
What is forest therapy?
Forest Therapy is a Japanese practice that involves spending time in nature to improve physical and mental wellbeing. It can include walking, sitting quietly, listening to music, reading books, taking photos, observing wildlife, playing games with children, meditating, doing yoga poses, drawing pictures, making art, writing poetry, singing songs, dancing, gardening, cooking, eating healthy food, drinking herbal tea, talking with friends, watching movies, and so much more. It’s based on ancient traditions from Japan where people would go into forests or other natural areas to connect with their environment. Forest therapy has been practiced by many cultures throughout history, including Native Americans, Chinese, Koreans, and Europeans.
How does forest therapy affect the body?
Forest therapy has been shown to lower blood pressure, increase oxygen levels, decrease cortisol, and promote relaxation. Studies have also found it can relieve depression, pain, insomnia, and postpartum depression. Forest therapists see positive effects on mental clarity, energy, focus, creativity, self-esteem, and overall sense of wellbeing. In addition to its physical benefits, forest therapy offers an opportunity to connect deeply with others.
According to research from Japan, spending time in nature has been linked to better mental wellbeing, including lower stress levels and greater happiness. The benefits are even more vital for those who spend time outside during daylight hours.
But there may be other reasons why forests make us feel good. For one thing, they offer respite from urban noise pollution — something we hear every day but rarely notice.
Today, forest therapy is practiced all over the world. The benefits are many: you will feel more relaxed, refreshed, and energized; your skin is healthier because it’s bathed in natural sunlight, and you may even experience an increase in energy levels! T.he nourishment in the fresh air and sunshine of a forest is immense. The Forest Bathing Method was developed by Dr. John Fife, who used this technique for over 40 years
as part of his holistic approach to health care.
What is the Forest Therapy Benefits Include?
Boosting Immunity
A review of studies concluded that “the evidence supports the use of forests as a source of positive environmental influences.” Forest therapy has been shown to increase numbers of white blood cells and decrease levels of C-reactive protein.
Reducing Stress
In addition to boosting immunity, forest therapy reduces stress hormones like adrenaline and norepinephrine. These chemicals raise blood pressure and cause muscle tension. Accelerates your recovery from illness.
Boosts your energy levels
A recent study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology showed that people who spent more than two hours outside every day had higher vitamin D and serotonin levels. This means they felt happier and less stressed.
Helps you sleep
Researchers at Kyoto University discovered that spending time outdoors reduces melatonin secretion, which helps regulate circadian rhythms.
Conclusion – What’s different about a forest therapy walk?
A Forest Therapy Walk is an experience that takes place in the natural environment. It’s not just walking through trees, and it’s being immersed in nature and experiencing its healing power. The benefits of this type of exercise are numerous: improved mood, increased energy levels, reduced stress, better sleep quality, enhanced immune system function, lower blood pressure, a greater sense of wellbeing, a more positive outlook on life, etc.
Regular practice is essential If you’ve never tried forest therapy before, don’t worry: It doesn’t require any special skills or equipment. All you need are some comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen and maybe an umbrella if it gets cloudy. You’ll also want to bring along something to read—or listen to music—to keep boredom at bay while
you explore nature.