Is Forest Therapy legit?
Forest therapy appears to have measurable health benefits; for example, it can lower levels of salivary cortisol, the hormone that rises when we’re under stress. One Japanese study showed that gazing at forest scenery for as little as 20 minutes reduced salivary cortisol levels by 13.4 percent.
What happens to our bodies when we go forest bathing?
Using the Profile of Mood States test, researchers found that forest bathing trips significantly decreased the scores for anxiety, depression, anger, confusion and fatigue. And because stress inhibits the immune system, the stress-reduction benefits of forests are further magnified.
What happens on a Forest Therapy Walk?
Forest therapy, sometimes called forest bathing, is a slow and mindful way of walking that almost forces us (in a good way) to engage the senses and allows for reflection.
What are the exercises for forest therapy?
Activities include walking, meditating, sitting in silence, and mindful observing of nature. This approach is based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or Forest Bathing, though we acknowledge that there is a long tradition of this type of experience in cultures throughout the world.
BENEFITS OF FOREST THERAPY
Improved mood Increased energy level Accelerated recovery from surgery/illness
Boosted creativity Boosted immune system Reduced blood pressure
Reduced stress Increased ability to focus Improved sleep
Can forest therapy enhance health and well-being? – Harvard Health
Forest Therapy Guides – The Conservation Foundation
What Is Forest Bathing? Potential Benefits (clevelandclinic.org)
Is Forest Therapy for Real? | Forest Bathing | Andrew Weil, M.D. (drweil.com)