You won't find a “recommended daily allowance” for it…the name is a little tongue-in-cheek, but it does seem to do a body good!
The “G” is for “green” or “grounding,” depending on who you ask.
The idea is similar in both cases though, getting back in contact with the earth and with nature seems to yield significant benefits.
We've been going on about this for a while, and you can see our grounding gear rundown here.
To see what you can expect, check out the science-based benefits below.
1. Enhanced Concentration and Memory
Interacting with nature, such as walking in a park, offers notable cognitive benefits, according to a study by the University of Michigan published in Psychological Science. Researchers observed a 20% improvement in memory performance and attention span after participants spent an hour in natural settings. This enhancement was consistent even when viewing nature photographs. Conversely, urban environments didn't yield the same positive effects, emphasizing the unique therapeutic value of nature. (2).
2. Improved Immunity
Trees produce phytoncides, natural compounds, to defend against harmful insects and germs. Consider these compounds as the essential oil or natural aroma of trees. When we breathe in these natural fragrances, especially from trees like the hinoki cypress, we also reap surprising benefits.
In a study involving twelve men, when they were exposed to the vapor from hinoki cypress tree oil during a 3-night hotel stay, there was a noticeable boost in their immune system (3).
Specifically, their natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in defending our body against viruses and potential cancer cells, became more active. On top of that, their stress hormone levels decreased, suggesting a calming effect.
3. Enhanced Creativity
The University of Kansas conducted a compelling study highlighting the relationship between nature immersion and cognitive enhancement. Participants who spent time in natural surroundings, away from technological distractions, experienced a significant 50% boost in their problem-solving skills. This improvement underscores nature's ability to stimulate and refresh the human mind, allowing for deeper, more creative thinking (4).
The tranquility of nature provides a respite from our digitally saturated lives, promoting mindfulness and focus. In such serene settings, the mind can wander freely, leading to innovative solutions and enhanced creativity.
4. Blood Pressure Reduction
“Shinrin-yoku” or forest bathing significantly reduces blood pressure. A systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that immersing oneself in a forest environment notably decreases both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, highlighting the therapeutic importance of nature for cardiovascular health (5).
5. Stress Reduction
Forest therapy provides more than just a peaceful retreat; it delivers concrete health advantages, particularly for postmenopausal women with insomnia. A study on these women showed that a 6-day forest therapy program markedly lowered their stress hormone levels. They not only felt more at ease but also experienced enhanced sleep quality. If stress or sleep disturbances plague you, a forest visit could be the remedy (6).
6. Enhanced Well-being
The biophilia hypothesis supports the idea that humans inherently connect with nature. This bond with the natural world brings numerous psychological benefits. Engaging in activities like forest bathing can markedly diminish depression and anxiety symptoms, boosting overall mental health. The serenity of forests and the sensory interactions they offer are essential in elevating our mood and mental state. With the increasing demands of urbanization, forests' therapeutic contributions become more vital, underscoring the importance of preserving nature to bolster mental health (7).
7. Depression and Anxiety Alleviation
Forest settings reduce anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion scores in the Profile of Mood States (POMS) test. Participating in forest bathing activities can elevate vigor scores, showcasing its potential in preventing depression and mood-related issues (8).
8. Promotion of Physical Activity through Green Spaces
Natural environments, with their lush greenery and serene landscapes, inherently inspire more physical activity. The inviting ambiance of parks or woodland trails encourages individuals to engage in exercises like jogging or hiking. Simply put, the presence of nature acts as a catalyst, motivating people to exercise more frequently and consistently, leading to enhanced health benefits (9).
A Remedy for Urbanization
Urban areas continue to grow, making the inclusion of green spaces essential. Urban greening, the practice of introducing and maintaining vegetation in city environments, provides aesthetic and health advantages, ranging from enhanced air quality to mental well-being.
While many recognize the general benefits of urban greenery, we still need to explore specific initiatives, such as urban tree planting and biophilic design in schools and workplaces. These initiatives strive to harmonize urban expansion with the healing attributes of nature.
The forest, with its timeless beauty and tranquility, serves as a haven of rejuvenation. Through the practice of “shinrin-yoku” or forest bathing, we not only forge a deeper bond with nature but also rediscover our inner peace and vitality. The gentle rustle of leaves, the soothing sounds of woodland creatures, and the refreshing forest air all beckon us to embrace this ancient wisdom. In doing so, we find a path that guides us towards balance, health, and enduring harmony in our lives.
References:
- Hansen, Margaret M., et al. “Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review.” MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 28 July 2017, www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/14/8/851.
- “Going Outside-Even in the Cold-Improves Memory, Attention.” University of Michigan News, 16 Dec. 2008, news.umich.edu/going-outsideeven-in-the-coldimproves-memory-attention/.
- Li Q;Kobayashi M;Wakayama Y;Inagaki H;Katsumata M;Hirata Y;Hirata K;Shimizu T;Kawada T;Park BJ;Ohira T;Kagawa T;Miyazaki Y; “Effect of Phytoncide from Trees on Human Natural Killer Cell Function.” International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20074458/. Accessed 2 Oct. 2023.
- Atchley, Ruth Ann, et al. “Creativity in the Wild: Improving Creative Reasoning through Immersion in Natural Settings.” PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0051474. Accessed 2 Oct. 2023.
- Blood Pressure-Lowering Effect of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing): A …, bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/counter/pdf/10.1186/s12906-017-1912-z.pdf. Accessed 5 Oct. 2023.
- Kim, Hyeyun, et al. “Effect of Forest Therapy for Menopausal Women with Insomnia.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 9 Sept. 2020.
- www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7558331/. Grace under Pressure: Mental Health Nurses … – Wiley Online Library, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1111/inm.13130. Accessed 5 Oct. 2023.
- Effects of Forest Environment (Shinrin-Yoku/Forest Bathing) on Health …, www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/ehpm/27/0/27_22-00160/_pdf/-char/ja. Accessed 5 Oct. 2023.
- Gladwell, Valerie F, et al. “The Great Outdoors: How a Green Exercise Environment Can Benefit All.” Extreme Physiology & Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 3 Jan. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3710158/.