I recently read an article on SpiritualityHealth.com called Forrest Bathing
Now, I am not talking about running naked in the forest or stripping to skinny dip in a stream … though you can certainly do that if you like.
I am talking about the practice of immersing yourself in nature. Forest Bathing is a Japanese mindfulness technique “in which people literally “bathe” all of their senses in the beauty and nature of the woods.”
There are other such practices as well such as “Earthing” and “Grounding” defined as “Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth’s Surface Electrons“
And others.
All of them point to the benefits that being in nature has on the mind, body, and spirit.
Studies have shown that being in nature
- reduces stress hormones
- decreases depression
- lessens negative thoughts
- energizes you
- relaxes you.
There have been research studies that show the importance of having contact with the natural world because walking in nature can change the blood flow level in your brain which helps improve your mood, gives you a sense of being away from the day-to-day stresses of life, and allows you to put things in perspective for yourself.
The natural world stimulates you and pleases the senses which generally gives you that feeling that you’re in a very supportive and harmonious environment. So whether you’re sitting outside, walking, riding a bicycle or hugging a tree, being in nature is good for you!
I urge you to get out into nature this week. And to appreciate nature. To help with appreciation, I am gifting to you my Earth Nature Gratitude Meditation. You can download it by clicking here.
Enjoy!
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
For more ideas to relieve stress, grab my stress relief tips here
.
.
