Many of us enjoy taking peaceful nature walks, but did you know that walking in the woods is actually good for you beyond just exercise? In Japan, it is known as 'shinrin-yoku', which means forest bathing, and people around the world strongly believe that the natural elements have a strong restorative power. Scientists say that while walking in nature you are getting the benefits of clean air and little noise pollution, you are actually receiving another benefit that have to do with how natural elements such as animals and the sun gently tug, but never grab at our attention.
Walking in the woods and being out among nature give your time to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It allows you to be alone with your thoughts, or to not focus on anything specific but rather soak in your surroundings. The sounds you hear in nature, such a birds chirping, the wind whistling, and leaves rustling, are all much more relaxing than the sounds we get caught up in during daily life (phones, radio, horns etc). Having time alone with these sounds can help restore balance and tranquility.
Researches have also found that walking in a forest can actually help boost immune function. Trees emit a mist of wood essential oils, and these oils are said to possibly help with stress levels and even blood pressure.
So next time you are feeling a little overwhelmed, or you just want to get some exercise, consider taking a nice long nature walk in the woods~
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