If you’d rather read about it:
What is Shinrin-Yoku?
I love that the Japanese have a concept and expression for almost everything.
And one concept that I truly admire and love is Shinrin-Yoku.
In today’s Self Love Sundays episode I go into the deeper meaning and healing benefits of this concept.
So, you might wanna tune in after reading this article.
Forest bathing
We all know how good it feels to be in nature. Forest bathing is really just the simply act of immersing ourselves in nature, taking off our shoes and grounding ourselves, breathing in the fresh air, soaking up the soothing natural sounds and lying on the soft moss or grass.
We know how it feels; and we know it is good for us.
I believe when we make time for Shinrin-Yoku, it can enrich our lives as women profoundly.
It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, right?
I mean we sit for hours in front of your screens, then we sit for hours not in front of our screens; we barely move these days because we have the world right at our fingertips, everything is accessible through our phones. Or when we move we “run” errands.
Especially when we live in a big city.
When do we really make time to connect with ourselves, our bodies, with nature?
I’ve been pondering a lot lately. With my 40th birthday coming up in July, I’ve been questioning things on a deeper level, but especially what truly matters to me, and why I do things the way I do. Taking inventory of my life.
And lately, I haven’t been in nature as much as I would like to. And I could feel it, I could feel how it affected my ability to emotional-regulate myself.
And that has got to change. That’s why you receive this email today, because I needed this little nudge myself , and may it serve you as a gentle reminder to prioritize your wellbeing.
If you cannot listen to the episode, I still want to give you the incredible benefits of forest bathing, aka Shinrin-Yoku:
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety:
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can significantly lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. The serene and calming environment of a forest helps to reduce anxiety, leaving us feeling more relaxed and at peace.
2. Boosts Immune Function:
Forest bathing can enhance our immune system. The phytoncides, which are natural oils emitted by trees and plants, have been found to increase the number of natural killer (NK) cells in our body. These cells play a crucial role in fighting off infections and diseases.
3. Improves Mental Clarity and Focus:
Nature has a remarkable ability to clear our minds and improve concentration. The gentle sounds, fresh air, and natural beauty help declutter our thoughts and enhance our cognitive functions, making us more focused and productive. Isn’t that simply amazing!!!
4. Enhances Emotional Wellbeing:
Connecting with nature can elevate our mood and overall emotional wellbeing. The act of grounding – walking barefoot on the earth – can help balance our energies and foster a deeper sense of connection to the world around us.
5. Promotes Physical Health:
Walking in nature, breathing in the fresh air, and absorbing the natural sunlight can improve our cardiovascular health and boost our energy levels. The physical activity involved in forest bathing, even if it’s just a gentle stroll, is beneficial for our overall fitness.
So, beautiful, have I convinced you? I hope so! Let’s prioritize ourselves!
Let’s go on a walk, or two, or three, or four, together in spirit!
Let’s connect with nature, and thus with ourselves and the world.
Our nervous systems will thank us for that!
Love
Nadine
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Listen to my other Podcast Natural Woman Alchemy:
Intro and Outro Music by my dear mentor and friend Kara Johnstad
