CHave you ever heard of the term Shinrin-yoku (Japanese: 森林浴; forest bathing)? For all those who rarely go to the park or forest and are more likely to be among technology than nature, a valuable clue will be that the practice of contact with the forest environment has a wonderful effect on our health and well-being. Forest bathing originated in Japan and was not as popular with us in Europe. Nowadays, more and more people relax in the forest by walking, listening to the rustling leaves, singing rings and rustling wildlife. This allows our minds to relax and we start to perceive nature with all our senses. On warm days, it is a good idea to take a blanket with you, lie on the grass and idly look at the swaying trees. Our nervous system will begin to relax, our blood pressure will slow down, and our eyes will rest...
Why do we love nature so much? Because it enabled us to survive many, many years ago. Studies show that frequent exposure to the forest has an impact on our immune system. Just one trip to the forest per month for a long walk keeps the immune system active. Let's walk up to a large tree full of wisdom that draws energy from our Mother Nature and embrace it fully with our hands. Let's close our eyes. Let's open ourselves to the transfer of beneficial energy to us. More and more people love trees and practice meditation with them, listening to the wonderful sounds of the forest. Also, we have more oxygen in the forest, and by being in the forest we can inhale the large amount of essential oils that the trees give off - thus protecting ourselves from bacteria. Stop in and smell the wonderful fresh pine scent! Also, did you know that we inhale a harmless bacteria in the soil when we walk in the woods that stimulates serotonin production in our brains? This weekend, take a walk or bike ride to a nearby forest and stop for a moment, stay with your thoughts by breathing deeply. Your mind will clear and have more energy to work effectively. Forest walks improve sleep quality and encourage exercise. In the forest, you can play boules, do meditation, yoga, read a book, or just lie and sunbathe. Each activity among the greenery wonderfully relaxes our whole body. Our mood improves and stress disappears.
Tips for beginners with forest bathing
# Wear comfortable clothes, let nothing restrict or squeeze your body
# turn off all your devices - notifications to your phone to give yourself a chance to relax more deeply
# slow down and move slowly through the forest so you can see and feel much more
# Take deep breaths in and out
