So now that I have your attention I just want to tell you "Forest Bathing" does not involve taking a bath in the forest. I don't think I could relax with mud at my feet and bugs all over the place. Although a swim in a clear river or beautiful lake is always nice. The average adult spends only 5 percent of each day outdoors.
Forest Bathing is actually taking a day to surround yourself with nature. Experts say being around all that green eases stress and benefits your mental health. Dr. Frank Lipman puts it this way: " Being present in nature puts you in a state of pleasure and relaxation, which turns on your parasympathetic nervous system. You remain aware but with a more soft focus that is less information loaded and more calm and peaceful."
Even if you live in a city and have no forest going to a park or botanical garden will work as a forest bath. Of course, where we live there are many places to escape into nature. Last year I went on my first hike in the woods with my stepson and his daughter. We hiked around High Point State Park for 3 hours and I wasn't even tired. I felt less stress all week long and felt better connected to my family. I have gone on more hikes in several other places since then. Taking a "Forest Bath" always does wonders for me.
1 of 1