Forest Bathing

 Forest Bathing

Fortunately for park service professionals, we are all within daily reach of the healing components of nature. Maybe you have heard of the Japanese practice of forest bathing otherwise known as "shinrin-yoku" in Japanese. In Japan, it is common to spend time in the forest practicing forest bathing because the air within a forest has higher oxygen and phytoncides which help to promote well being.

"Phytoncides improve the human immune system by increasing natural killer cell activity. These cells respond rapidly to virus-infected cells and tumor formation. Studies show that increased natural cell activity can last for more than 30 days after a trip to a forest, suggesting that a trip once a month would enable individuals to maintain a higher level of natural killer cell activity. Other benefits from phytoncides include an increase in anti-cancer proteins; a reduction in blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormones; reduced test scores for anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion; and increased scores for vigor." Read more here.

Another study (found here) states that 120 minutes a week is the minimum amount of time we should aim for spending in nature each week to receive the health benefits. The good news is that it does not matter if the 120 minutes is in several small doses or one long 120 minutes trek.

If you are stuck in the office today or on days when you can't get out here is a short video of forest meditation. 

And if you're feeling sluggish, Dr. Qing Li who studies the intersection of health and time in the forest found that an afternoon walk in the woods is more beneficial than a morning walk.

In conclusion, as the weather warms and the ground thaws don't forget to take advantage of the beautiful places we work in everyday. See you out there!