Fauns, elves, pixies, ghouls, trolls – the image of forests and woodlands arouse many feelings of mystery and intrigue. Not only do forests bring to mind mythical creatures, but they're also the home of countless folklore tales and superstitions. Did you know that the Druids and the Germanic Pagans used to worship trees? No wonder the forest, in all its ethereal splendor, is the perfect place for us to take solitary strolls.
Interestingly, forests also provide the perfect place to holistically heal ourselves. All our daily tensions, struggles and woes can perish through some simple forest therapy. We all have forests, bush-lands, and woodlands near us. But how can we make the best out of these erudite ecosystems? You'll find some suggestions below.
This eccentric practice is believed by many Japanese people to enhance the immune system. And it's scientifically proven as well. Just taking a short stroll through the forest or woodland can make you stronger and healthier. This is because the essential wood oils emitted in the air called phytoncides increase the number of killer cells in your body. These killer cells in turn help fight sickness and disease, like cancer, keeping you fit and fighting.
Sounds such as the whisper of wind, rustle of leaves, songs of a bird and the sound of streams have been proven to soothe the mind and therefore the brain activity. This reduces blood pressure significantly.
Just seeing the scenes of a forest has been proven to decrease heart rate, blood pressure and increase feelings of calmness and joy.
As they say "there's something magic in the air", and the smells of a forest can have astounding effects on the body. Walking through a forest has physiological effects which decrease blood pressure, anxiety, depression, as well as slowing breathing rates and clearing the mind. And all thanks to the aromatherapeutic benefits of the wood oil phytoncides.
Forest Bathing is also said to reduce stress, lower blood sugar levels, increase mental concentration and decrease pain. Not bad for a stroll in the woods.
Although constantly ridiculed and maligned to this very day, tree hugging is a scientifically valid practice. Often ridden off as the practice of hippies and crackpots, tree hugging is actually a proven way of soothing the body.
Firstly, we know that at its core, every atom vibrates. And every object possessing these atoms vibrates at different frequencies. As explored by Matthew Silverstone in his book Blinded by Science, trees have unique vibrational patterns which cause positive changes in our biological behaviors when touched.
It's been proven for instance, that drinking a glass of water treated with 10Hz vibration immediately changes blood coagulation rates. So next time you're near a tree, expect to literally receive good vibrations.
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