FOREST BATHING
If you feel powerless over your medical course, consider tapping into the power of nature for healing. Many studies have shown that patient’s having even hospital window with a view of nature have improved healing. Data proves, something called forest bathing can: reduce blood pressure, lower stress, improve cadiovascular and metabolic health, lower blood-sugar levels, boost the immune system (increasing natural killer cells), lift depression and improve pain thresholds. Don’t worry, you can take it one step at a time and engage with nature.
Find a spot -it could be as grand as a forrest or as small as your front porch, but leave your devices behind. Let your body be your guide. Let nature enter through you eyes, ears, nose and feet.
Be in the present. Find what works best for you - walking, T’aichi, meditation, aromatherapy, eating in nature (picnic?) or yoga.
Breathe it in. Practice breathing in for a count of 4, hold for a count of 7, release your breath over a count of 8. This engages the parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest) quieting the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight).
This summer give forrest bathing a try at that beach…natural free foot exfoliant, 15 mins of sun without sunscreen gets your vitamin D for the day, grounding releases positive electrons, going barefoot gives a chance to realign our posture.
Or meditate on this view of lake Roosevelt.
