A stroll through the forest can mend a bad mood.
The Japanese call it Shinrin-Yoku or “Forest Bathing.” It’s the practice of simply wandering through the woods to improve one’s health and wellbeing.
More and more studies are proving that spending time amongst the trees can reduce psychologial stress, depressive symptoms and hostility. Other benefits of a little frolick in the forest also include improved sleep and increased vigor and vitality.
Nearly a dozen such studies have been conducted in 24 forests, and each reported that subjects experienced lowered levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and lower levels of blood pressure and pulse rates.
Trees have a natural stress relief scent. Just a whiff confers amazing health benefits. Pine and other evergreen trees are loaded with compounds that have been proven to reduce stress in the human body. The chemicals are called phytonsides and can really help you chill out by reducing anxiety and boosting immune defences.
A walk through the woods also involves a certain amount of exercise, which has been proven to combat fatigue, depression, anxiety and obesity.
So what are you waiting for? Find a forest and start walking.
