I saw this on TV one morning just as the article was finishing and I was intrigued as to what it was, so I did the usual search.
A Japanese custom heading our way?
It’s about going into the woodlands and letting go of your stress. “So basically, going for a walk” I hear you all say and you’d right to ask the question.
The Japanese have done extensive research and found that what they call “natural killer” cells in the immune system actually increased after exposure to woods, an improvement that lasts up to a month.
“What?” I hear you exclaim
This was due to phytoncide – essential oils in woods and plants that trees emit to protect themselves from attackers such as germs and insects.
Japanese study found evidence of reduced cortisol (the stress hormone), lower pulse and lower blood pressure after a half-hour forest visit.
So back to the first questions, what’s the different between a forest bathe and just going for a walk?
Maybe not that much, but it’s exercise, more meditative, probably beautiful scenery, bit of an adventure (take the kids!) or maybe on your own for the peace and quiet and serenity. Can’t be a bad thing and if the science is correct – a win win!
