Nature and Our Health

After decades of study, the correlation between human health and exposure to nature is unmistakable. Further, it is found that spending time in nature is particularly beneficial for those with:

Depression/Anxiety

ADHD

Cardiovascular Disease

Respiratory Illness

Autoimmune Disorder

Musculoskeletal Complaints

Cancer

Infectious Disease

5 BIG Ways Nature and Forest Therapy Benefit the Body, Mind, and Spirit:

1 Relaxes Mind and Body

By simply removing oneself from the stresses of day-to-day life / activities, the body can benefit tremendously. As the body slows and calms, the sympathetic system (fight/flight) is replaced by the parasympathetic system (rest/digest) and it begins to shift back toward its natural state of healthy equilibrium. Respiration/heart rates decrease, stress hormone levels are reduced, digestion is triggered, and the immune system is turned back on. In this calmed state vital body systems are once again able to function properly, and any healing that is needed can occur.

The mind also relaxes when we take a break from the busyness of life, and responds powerfully to the calming elements found in a natural setting. Clarity is increased, there is a rise in the mind's capacity to concentrate and focus, and *rumination (which often accompanies states of anxiety and depression) has also been found to be relieved by spending time in nature.

*when a person gets stuck, turning the same thoughts/worries over and over in their mind.

2 Exposure to Trees and Plants Boosts the Human Immune System

All plants, and especially coniferous trees, produce and emit special substances called phytoncides, to protect themselves from funguses etc. When we (humans) breath in these phytoncides, special white blood cells called Natural Killer (NK) cells are released in OUR bodies. These are VERY important constituents of our immune system as it is their job to seek out and rid the body of serious threats such as tumor cells and viruses. So, the immune system of the trees helps boost OUR immune system!! Talk about CONNECTION and talk about THERAPY! This is essential where the term 'Forest Bathing' came from – we can literally bathe in phytoncides – the forest’s natural medicine.

3 Reduces Stress / Stress - Related Disease

Research has shown that when one immerses oneself in nature (without exercise or other unrelated stimuli such as social media , phone calls, conversations, or reading) it significantly reduces the body's stress hormone levels. Further, spending at least 20 to 30 minutes was associated with the biggest drop in cortisol levels.

Through the combined effects of reducing the body's stress hormones, slowing the heart, and dilating the blood vessels, spending time in Nature is a powerful medicine for preventing and treating high blood pressure.

4 Exposure to Fresh Air and Natural Light/Sun

Breathing fresh air has a positive impact on the physical and mental health of a person as it: reduces the workload on the heart, maintains and raises oxygen levels in the blood, cleans up the airways and the lungs, triggers the release of seratonin (improving mood, sleep patterns, immune system...), makes a person more energetic...

Exposure to the sun and to natural light is important as it prevents / protects against SAD, improves brain function, heals skin disorders, improves mood, can cure depression, improves sleep prevents vitamin D deficiency, promotes bone health, regulates vital calcium levels... ...!

5 As a Mindful Practice

By slowing down and turning our attention to the details of our natural surroundings, our minds/bodies calm, we become grounded in the Present moment, and we naturally experience a feeling of improved spiritual wellbeing.m a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

So, if you have ever experienced that improved feeling of wellness after spending time in nature, now you know why. It is not in your head or a cliché without merit. You feel better because you are (getting) better!

For more information check out these excellent articles:

Canadian Geographic - Using nature as medicine

CBC - Forest Therapy viable option to deal with pandemic stress, guide says

Echopsychology: How Immersion in Nature Benefits Your Health