Everything to Love About Trees
We cannot have too many trees. In fact, de-forestation in different parts of the world means that we are losing more trees than we are planting. We have to do everything we can to change this.
I belong to a group here in my part of Somerset in the UK known as TWiG which actively works to plant trees, hedges and wild flower meadows - and stands for Trees and Wildlife Group.
Why are trees so vital?
- Producing oxygen
- Absorbing carbon dioxide
- Providing habit for wildlife
- Regulating climate
- Offering resources such as wood and food
What is forest bathing?
Forest Bathing - or "shinrin-yoku" in Japanese - means taking in the forest atmosphere. If you walk to a wooden area or green space near you, take a deep breath, soak up the ambiance - and relax...
Are there health benefits?
- Forest bathing can lower cortisol levels, naturally boosting immunity.
- Forest bathing can enhance mental clarity.
- Forest bathing could help to lower blood pressure, stress and anxiety.
- As an activity open to adults and children alike, forest bathing can be useful in teaching methods of focus and mindfulness.
When you walk in nature among trees, you will benefit from the anti-microbial phytoncides which are wood essential oils found within a forest or woodland area. Trees emit them to protect themselves but they can have long term health benefits, particularly mental health, in people too.
There is an added benefit too. Through the very act of Forest Bathing, you are helping save the trees, forests and woodland areas.
Three suggestions to make the most of forest bathing
1. Leave the smart phones at home! And let your mind wander as you walk. Immerse yourself in nature, and enjoy its healing power.
2. When you’re in nature, it’s best to be quiet and still. Pay close attention to your senses… What can you see? Touch? Hear? Or smell? This can be key to clearing an anxious mind. And you might even spot a woodland creature!
3. Deep breathing to increases your brain’s oxygen supply. This will quickly calm your nerves, reduce stress and anxiety and even lower heartbeat and blood pressure. All you have to do is breathe in for 4…And out for 8. Then repeat, as much as you like.
Tree photos by Bryan Chitty
Written by Jane Chitty
Jane writes for Healing Natural Oils, a producer and retailer of high-quality, all-natural treatments for a variety of conditions as well as a range of beauty products. Apart from writing about those various conditions, she also covers general health, environmental and other subjects of interest. She has lived in Kenya as well as Cape Town, South Africa and spent time in San Diego, USA. She now lives in Somerset, England with regular visits from her far-flung children and grandchildren. She is a keen gardener and enjoys growing fresh fruit and vegetables with her husband on their joint allotment. As a result, there is something available to use in the kitchen virtually all year round. Her regular posts can be found on our blog.
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