If someone suggested ìforest bathingî to you, what would your reaction be? The term, which may sound strange, is a popular therapeutic practice, mainly in Japan and the Far East, based on immersion in the forest. Created in the 1980s, the concept is nothing more than a translation of the idea of well-being and health through a connection with nature. The practice gains followers every day and, experts guarantee, it is good for our overall health.
In large urban centers, where 55% of the world’s population lives, more and more buildings and construction distance people from nature, which makes the issue even more important.
The benefits of green spaces
Research carried out in Japan showed that immersion in forests reduces the concentration of cortisol, a substance known as a ìstress hormoneî, in the blood by 13%, in addition to reducing by 18% the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for involuntary reactions to situations of danger and anxiety.
Another study, published on the scientific platform Science Direct, demonstrated that green spaces in hospitals bring significant therapeutic gains. The research brought together articles on the topic to reinforce the importance of wooded areas in hospitals to optimize patient treatment and bring greater comfort to employees and visitors.
The Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) gathered and incorporated relevant data on the topic into a project that seeks to disseminate the importance of connecting with nature for health. One of the initiativeís strategies is to train a new type of professional, the ì ecotuner.î He/she is a specialist in guiding people on the importance of regular contact with large green areas. There is even the expectation of including “forest bathing” in the integrative and complementary practices offered by the Unified Health System (SUS).
A remedy for the mind
Hugging a tree, breathing fresh air, feeling the grass under your feet and other simple gestures can be powerful allies for mental health. This is what a study shows that grouped databases from different research carried out between 2000 and 2021.
Among the discoveries, the gains in the treatment of two well-known mental disorders, anxiety and depression stand out on a re curring basis. This extensive survey reaffirmed the fact that excessively urbanized environments make us more vulnerable from a mental health perspective. In this scenario, the therapeutic role of wooded spaces is essential.
Being closer to nature can also be very good for children. Research, published in the Journal of Attention Disorders, demonstrated that a simple walk in the park can increase the level of concentration in children who have ADHD – attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Embrace this idea
Taking care of mental health is a practice that, like a plant, must be cultivated every day. There is no right time of year to take care of your mind, as it needs to be preserved in the name of balance and well-being. Adopt moments to experience nature in your routine, the resulting gains are countless and can be felt quickly. Here are some benefits: control of stress levels and blood pressure, improved energy, disposition, concentration, and creativity.
“Don’t chase butterflies, grow your own garden.” Mario Quintana
If you want to learn more about this rich topic, itís worth reading ìForest Bathing: how trees can help you be healthier and happier. The work, authored by Chinese professor Qing Li, provides details on this therapeutic practice.
Taking care of the mind is taking care of ourselves! The sooner the better! #amesuamente
