Healthy Living
Forest Bathing … Yes, It’s a Thing
Time in nature has reduced drastically as humanity has moved to more urban locations. It is believed that approximately 83% of people living in the United States currently live in an urban area, up from 64% in 1950 (1). Research is beginning to show that this separation from nature may be a contributing factor towards the increasing cases of chronic diseases, including hypertension, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and type II diabetes (2).
Some cultures, however, have not lost their connection with nature despite advancements in modern technology and agriculture. In Japan the practice of shinrin-yoku or forest bathing is regularly used as preventative medicine. This practice of immersing yourself in nature with a focus on mindfulness with the utilization of all five senses is believed to have a positive impact on health.
Research is showing what many cultures have known for years, there is a positive benefit to your health from spending time in nature. These include (2,3):
- Boosted immune system functioning
- Reduced blood pressure
- Heightened coping abilities for stress and less stress in general
- Improved mood
- Increased mindfulness
- Increased ability to focus, even in children with ADHD
- Accelerated recovery from surgery or illness
- Increased energy
- Improved sleep
How can you start benefiting from the healing effects of nature now?
Find a way to get out in nature at least once a week. The exact amount of time is not yet known, so experiment with this to find what works for you. While the purpose is to be present in nature and utilizing all your senses, you may find some benefits from combining this with other activities that you are already doing:
- Do a walking meeting outside
- Take the kids to the park for reading time
- Meditate or exercise outside
- Study or read a book while sitting in a park
- Listen to a podcast or audiobook while taking a walk
If you are unsure where to find a place to get outside or want to find a new location to experience, these resources can help you:
- Kennewick: https://www.go2kennewick.com/529/Trails-Bike-Paths
- Richland: www.richlandparksandrec.com/parks
- Pasco: www.pasco-wa.gov/Facilities
- Full Tri-Cities: www.visittri-cities.com
- Beyond the Tri-Cities:
Sources
- US Cities_CSS09-06_e2020.pdf. (n.d.). Retrieved June 23, 2021, from http://css.umich.edu/sites/default/files/US%20Cities_CSS09-06_e2020.pdf
- Hansen, M. M., Jones, R., & Tocchini, K. (2017). Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 14(8), 851. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14080851
- Perlmutter, D., & Perlmutter, A. (2020). Brain Wash: Detox Your Mind for Clearer Thinking, Deeper Relationships, and Lasting Happiness (1st ed.). Yellow Kite Books.
Erika Zink, NBC-HWC
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