Kathy’s Home & Garden Tips – Immerse Yourself in the Forest

Those of us who love the outdoors know the stress relieving properties of spending several hours outdoors. Now, actual forest therapy is being practiced all around the world with amazing benefits to both mind and body.

Forest therapy comes from the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, which literally translates to “forest bathing”. This is no quick hike through the woods. Forest therapy walks typically last 2-4 hours and are less than a mile. You immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the forest, paying attention to sounds, smells, and textures. Forest therapy walks are guided by a certified forest therapist who knows the language of the forest and will invite you to experience different things during the walk. Morton Arboretum (mortonarb.org) offers several different guided walks throughout November. 

Several studies have found that evergreens secrete a natural chemical known as phytoncide. It has been found to improve immune functions. In the late 1800s, physicians in Germany and the U.S. built sanatoriums in pine forests and all reported positive benefits. Mental performance and creativity can increase. One study found that participants performed 50% better on creative problem solving after 3 days wilderness backpacking. Stress hormones compromise your immune system, especially antiviral cells. Forest therapy has been shown to drastically reduce the stress hormone cortisol. Excess stress causes high blood pressure, headaches, skin conditions, asthma, and arthritis. 

Forest therapy gives you a chance to slow down and open your senses to the marvel of nature. To get the most benefits, forest therapy needs to become a regular practice- like yoga or meditation. You will develop a meaningful relationship with nature over time and through the changing of seasons. Open up your senses and connect with nature in a healing way. 

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO