Forest Bathing is the act of seeking out nature, particularly, forests and trees, and just spending time in their presence. Recently, I read the book “Forest Bathing” by Dr. Qing Li and thought the time was right to share this information with you.

Trees work to produce oxygen, cleanse air and even help to purify water. They also release something called phytoncides. Phytoncides are part of the tree’s natural defense system, protecting them from bacteria, insects and fungi, they are also how trees communicate with one another. It has been shown that when humans breathe phytoncides they receive some of these benefits, as well as a hit of natural anti-depressant. Microbes that are released from the soil also contribute to these effects, which is why you might feel noticeably better after spending some time outside digging in a garden.

Multiple studies have been conducted to show that being in nature works to combat “technostress,” reduce blood pressure, improve energy, lift depression, boost the immune system, improve concentration, aide in sleep and increase anti-cancer producing cells.

The “Forest Therapy Study Group” in particular found that Shinrin-Yoku lowered the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline and worked to suppress the sympathetic “fight or flight” system while enhancing the parasympathetic “rest and recovery” system.

If you can’t get outside, studies have shown that having plants and flowers in the home, office or hospital room can make a difference in recovery time and improve mental attitude. It has even been shown that people who have hospital rooms with views looking out to nature, as opposed to other buildings, recover faster.

According to NASA research, the Peace Lily, Golden Pothos, English Ivy, Gerber Daisy, Spider Plant and Mother-in-law-Tounge are among some of the best houseplants to help filter air and boost oxygen.

During this time of uncertainty, I think we can all use nature as one way to heal ourselves and learn to move forward. No better time to start than now - while still making sure you are following all social distancing and current health guidelines.

For further reading, Dr. Qing Li suggests the following:

www.childrenandnature.org: Richard Louv’s organization “to fuel the worldwide grassroots movements to reconnect children with nature.”

www.fo-society.jp: Forest Medicine Therapy Society in Japan

www.forest-medicine.com: The Society for Forest Medicine in Japan

www.greenexercise.org: the home of green exercise research at the University of Essex, UK

www.hphpcentral.com: the Healthy Parks Healthy People organization in the United States, which aims to bring “the latest international research, innovations and programs that focus on the health benefits of human contact with the natural world.”

www.infom.org: International Society of Nature and Forest Medicine

www.natureandforesttherapy.org : an American-based organization whose mission is “to mobilize healthcare networks to connect people with nature,” offering guide training, workshops and retreats.

www.onesquareinch.org: a project in the Hoh Rainforest of the Olympic National Park, US