Walking through a forest provides one with relaxation and recreation but has been proven to be even more beneficial to the human immune system. Natural preservatives (wood essential oils) called phytoncides are emitted by trees and plants, and are scientifically classified as antimicrobial organic compounds. When exposed to phytoncides, the human immune system is strengthened by reducing the stress hormone cortisol, decreasing heart rate and blood pressure. In addition exposure to phytoncides encourages specific “killer cells” of the immune system to fight disease, including cancer. This growing health trend is called forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, a recognized Japanese stress management activity first recommended by The Forest Agency of Japan in the 1980s.
Forest bathing necessitates that one deliberately use four or five senses in communing with nature; sight, sound, smell, touch and taste (if appropriate). Leaving our hectic world behind (including cellphones!) and basking in nature allows us to completely immerse these senses resulting in positive physiological effects on the body. Lower heart rate, decreased blood pressure, slower breathing, stress reduction, elevated concentration, diminished pain are all touted as health benefits of forest bathing. Even a short stint of 15 minutes of walking in a forest, breathing in phytoncides, smelling the scent of wildflowers or touching the jagged bark of a tree may have a healing effect. Find you nearest forest now.
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