The forest is therapeutic and healing.

The benefits of forest bathing are many. Decades of evidence based research indicates that when you engage in forest bathing your physical and mental health improve.

In essence, the forest is therapeutic and healing.

The benefits are holistic and include (but are not limited to) improved concentration, focus, attention, and mood - reduced anxiety, depression, and inflammation - lowered blood pressure and heart rate - and increased heart rate variability. And, the more time you spend in nature, the greater the benefits. I know first-hand!

Just being among trees and breathing in the forest air has a positive impact on our well-being in and of itself.

Trees release organic compounds - known as phytoncides. They are a part of their immune system and protect them from pests and disease. And because we evolved with trees, it is now known that these organic compounds boost our immune system, too.

Some phytoncides are aromatic while others are not. The smell of pine is an example of an aromatic phytoncide. When you notice the scent, you’re breathing in nutrient rich, immune boosting compounds.