I want to ask you a question, do you feel better when you go for a walk in the woods? I imagine that the answer is a clear yes, and also, that you do not know the reason.
Research
Currently a lot of research is being carried out on the benefits of spending time in nature. Studies have shown that being in nature has a positive impact on our mood and can improve our immune system.
For example, a study conducted with 77 middle-aged Japanese women showed that, after engaging in activities in nature for more than 4 hours, they experienced a drop in heart rate and cortisol levels (a hormone released in stressful situations), which indicates greater relaxation. An improvement in the profile of mood states (POMS) was also observed, with a decrease in tension-anxiety parameters and an increase in vigor. In addition, the participants reported an increase in positive sensations and a decrease in negative ones.
How is it possible that forests give us so much health?
One possible explanation is phytoncides. These are volatile organic compounds synthesized by plants when they are under stress. Among the most interesting we find alpha-pinene and beta-pinene. The older the trees, the more volatile compounds they expel. Likewise, the heat also helps to increase the amount of phytoncides released. It is important that the forest is lush, but also bright to obtain greater benefits.
In addition to improving our mood, spending time in nature can also have physical benefits. It has been shown to increase the dominant activity of the parasympathetic versus sympathetic nervous system, leading to relaxation and less stress. A decrease in depression and anger levels in the POMS and a decrease in blood pressure have also been observed.
But that is not all. A study published in the "International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology" in 2007 showed that walkig in the woods can increase activity markers (as well as the total number) of "natural killer" cells (lymphocytes responsible among other functions, to attack cancer cells) and improve the immune system up to 7 days later.
Last but not least, in the "Traditional Chinese Method" (TCM), the universe is considered a global unit, which energy or structures cannot be divided. The internal affects the external and vice versa. That is, the human being cannot live if is not in harmony with nature.
In short, spending time in nature can have many benefits for our physical and mental health. So the next time you have the opportunity to take a walk in the woods, make the most of it and enjoy it with all your senses!
If you want me to help you find your natural balance, do not hesitate to make an acupuncture and naturopathy appointment with me.
I remind you that this information is for informative purposes only, and that I am not a doctor :)
References used in this article:
Li, Q., Morimoto, K., Nakadai, A., Inagaki, H., Katsumata, M., Shimizu, T., Hirata, Y., Hirata, K., Suzuki, H., Miyazaki, Y., Kagawa, T., Koyama, Y., Ohira, T., Takayama, N., Krensky, A. M., & Kawada, T. (2007). Forest Bathing Enhances Human Natural Killer Activity and Expression of Anti-Cancer Proteins. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, 20(2_suppl), 3–8. https://doi.org/10.1177/03946320070200S202
Ochiai, H., Ikei, H., Song, C., Kobayashi, M., Miura, T., Kagawa, T., Li, Q., Kumeda, S., Imai, M., & Miyazaki, Y. (2015). Physiological and Psychological Effects of a Forest Therapy Program on Middle-Aged Females. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 12(12), 15222–15232. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph121214984
Comentarios