08/04/2025
🌳 Forest bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku in Japanese, has been shown to have numerous health benefits according to several studies. Here are some key findings:
1. Immune system boost: Forest bathing has been found to increase human natural killer(NK) activity, the number of NK cells, and the levels of anti- cancer proteins in the body. This effect lasted for more than 7 days and even up to 30 days after spending time in amongst the forest.
2. Stress reduction: reduces stress hormone levels, such as urinary adrenaline, noradrenaline, and cortisol. This contributes to overall stress management and relaxation.
3. Cardiovascular benefits: Studies have reported that forest bathing reduces blood pressure and heart rate, showing potential preventative effects on hypertension and heart diseases.
4. Mental health improvements: reduces symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion while increasing feelings of vigor. This suggests it may be beneficial on depression and other mental health issues.
5. Sleep improvement: Research has shown that forest bathing can improve sleep quality.
6. Autonomic nervous system balance: increases the activity of parasympathetic nerves (associated with relaxation) and reduces activity of sympathetic nerves (associated with stress), helping to stabilize the autonomic nervous system.
7. Metabolic health: Some studies have found that forest bathing increases the levels of serum adiponectin and dehydoepiandrosternone sulfate, which may have implications for metabolic health.
The benefits are attributed to a quiet atmosphere, beautiful scenery, mild climate, pleasant aromas, and fresh air. Phytoncides, which are volatile organic compounds released by trees, are thought to play a significant role in the health benefits of forest bathing.
Even a short exposure to nature can have benefits. A day trip to a forest park was found to significantly increase NK activity and reduce stress hormones.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your comfy shoes, pack a snack, and head out to your nearest green space. Your body and your stress levels will take you!
Pubmed 36328581
