The Benefits of Forest Bathing
I have always found going for a walk in the woods to be wondefully theraputic. Over the years it has become an essential part of my self-care routine. Walking in the woods, no matter what the weather is like, helps to clear my mind, provides deeper access to my intuition, and eases my heart.
A few years ago, I discovered a Japanese term, Shinrin Yoku that completely describes the therapy of walking in the woods. It has been translated into english as Forest Bathing - taking in the forest atmosphere.
Studied Benefits (from The Shinrin Yoku Organization) of Forest Bathing include:
Boosted immune system functioning, with an increase in the count of the body's Natural Killer (NK) cells. (Research Study)
Reduced blood pressure
Reduced stress (Research Study)
Improved mood
lowered Cortisol ( Research Study )
Increased ability to focus,
Helped with ADHD
Accelerated recovery from surgery or illness
Increased energy level
Improved sleep
Forest Bathers also have reported:
Deeper and clearer intuition
Increased flow of energy
Increased capacity to communicate with the land and its species
Increased flow of eros/life force
Deepening of friendships
Overall increase in sense of happiness
Looking Deeper - Research & Articles on Forest Bathing
New York Times: The Claim: Exposure to Plants and Parks Can Boost Immunity
Conclusion
Go for a walk in the woods!!!! You will feel even better than you already do!!!
Love,
Lance