My latest article from Brainz Magazine, a digital magazine that is read in 60 countries.  I was named one of 500 influencers by Brainz last year.

 

Happy summer. Get back outdoors to enjoy nature again.

It is time to get out into our forests and to enjoy the art of “Forest Bathing.”[i]

There are many health benefits of forest bathing, both psychological and physical.

Research shows that “forest bathing” positively creates calming neuro-physiological effects through changes in our nervous system, reducing the stress hormone cortisol and boosting the immune system.[ii]

Trees Shower (or bathe) themselves in an antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial compound called phytoncides and is a way that trees combat disease. When people breathe in these chemicals, our bodies respond by increasing the number and activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells or NK. These work to thwart cancer. Other chemicals called “terpenes” are released by some plants. Terpenes come from leaves, pine needles, tree trunks, and thick bark. They are also released by bushes, herbs, shrubs, mushrooms, mosses, and ferns. They enter our bodies through our skin and our lungs. Terpenes are anti-inflammatory, anti-tumorigenic, and neuroprotective. Terpenes are also anti-cancer chemicals.[iii]

The benefits of “forest bathing” include:[iv]

• Boosted immune system

• Reduced blood pressure

• Reduced stress

• Improved mood

• Reduced anger

• Reduced anxiety

• Helps fight cancer cells

• Increased ability to focus, even in children with ADHD

• Accelerated recovery from surgery or illness

• Increased energy level

• Improved sleep

• Deeper and clearer intuition

• Increased capacity to communicate with the land and its species

• Increased happiness

• Improved mood and an excellent antidote for depression

• Reduced cortisol, your stress hormone.

These chemicals vary by season, which makes sense. Terpenes are highest in the summer and lowest in the winter.

When you get back into nature, take the time to use all your senses and to enjoy how the air feels on your skin, see the beauty of the forest; feel the textures of the forest- “feel a tree trunk;” put your hands into the dirt or take your shoes off and “ground.” Smell the fragrance of the forest. Use your time to reconned to the earth.

Take long breaths deep into the abdomen. Extending the exhalation of air to twice the length of the inhalation sends a message to the body that it can relax and allows you to enjoy the experience completely.

Forest bathing can be a shared or group activity.

Forest bathing can spark creativity and or problem-solving.

Forest bathing promotes wellbeing.

This is information from my 7x award-winning book Feeling Good Living Low Toxin. Available on Amazon.

I have many tips to help you return to health. Set up your first complimentary appointment today. Once I hear your health history, we tailor a program just for you.

To get up-to-date information on which local natural parks are open https://www.fs.usda.gov/angeles/

Want to learn more from Cheryl? Email her at Cherylmhealthmuse@gmail.com and follow her on Facebook, Instagram and connect with her on LinkedIn!