Walking among trees in the forest has numerous health benefits. Shinrin-yoku or "forest bathing" is a practice in Japan, where people are encouraged to visit and spend time in a forest to improve their health. The therapeutic benefits of forest bathing owe to many factors including phytoncides (antimicrobial allelochemic volatile organic compounds we breathe in), other natural aromas of wood, plants and flowers, the green scenery, soothing sounds of streams and waterfalls. Forest therapy is a good example of how our own health is dependent on the health of our natural environment.
Some of the benefits of forests are:
- Boosting immune system
- Lowering blood pressure
- Reducing stress
- Improving mood
- Increasing ability to focus, even in children with ADHD
- Accelerating recovery from surgery or illness
- Increasing energy level
- Improving sleep