Forest bathing, not just a walk in the woods!

by drgaylec | Gayle Colthurst PT, DPT | October 2019

Find healing in nature!

I know what your thinking, what the heck is forest bathing? That was my first thought when I heard of it. "Shinrin-yoku" is known as forest bathing, it is a Japanese practice used to de-stress and connect with nature. It can also be very healing for people in pain. Forest bathing involves stepping into nature to connect and become aware with all your senses.

Imagine walking through the forest with the leaves crunching beneath your feet. The smell of the crisp fall air hitting your nostrils. Seeing the breathtaking fall colors shimmer through the sunlight in the tree canopy before you. Touching the rough bark of a strongly rooted tree beside you. With no agenda you just bathe in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest that surrounds you.

Spending even 30 minutes in the forest can have a profound impact on your body!

Forest bathing has been found to reduce inflammation, improve your mood, lower blood pressure, lower stress hormone levels, decrease heart rate, improve your immune function, and give you a feeling of being refreshed and restored.

So if your struggling with stress, pain, or anxiety maybe it is time to get outside and try connecting with nature.

There are so many approaches to dealing with these issues. Please connect with me today to begin your healing journey. I offer a complimentary phone consultation. I would love to hear your story!

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References:

1. Selhub, Eva, & Logan, Alan (2013). Your Brain on Nature: Forest Bathing and Reduced Stress. Mother Earth News The Original Guide to Living Wisely.