More on the Science of the Nature-Health Connection

 

For most of our history humans lived outside. Our DNA recognizes the natural world as home, the setting where our bodies

receive the elements they need for the healthy functioning of our systems. Now that we live mostly inside, medical research is confirming that many illnesses relate to the fact that we are just not accessing the “medicine” present in nature. It will take a long time for our bodies to develop ways to compensate and adapt to an indoor way of life. But science is finding that a regular practice of forest bathing can actually reset our nervous systems!

 

The scientific data confirming the psychological, emotional, and biophysical benefits of forest bathing is abundant. It is exciting to see the impact of forest therapy in areas such as PTSD, ADHD and depression in addition to the benefits to our cardiovascular and immune systems. For detailed information and articles on the connection between nature and health, click on the “Science” link on the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) website. I also recommend The Nature Fix by Florence Williams and The Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv and Your Brain on Nature by Eva Selhub and Alan Logan.

 

In the Unites States, The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy (ANFT) is the most experienced leader in the field of forest bathing therapy, promoting the practice, training guides worldwide and building a community of friends and activists. As people enjoy the benefits of forest therapy they want to help care for the environment that our lives depend on.

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