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“Forest Bathing” Could Be The Mental Health Boost We Need

Next time you’re feeling stressed or frustrated, head outside and find some green. Most of us don’t go outside enough, according to the National Human Activity Pattern Survey, the average adult only spends about 5% of each day outdoorsBut a wellness practice called “forest bathing,” could help improve our mental health, we just need to go outside to do it.

Forest bathing sounds crazier than it is, but all you’re supposed to do is go outside and surround yourself with nature. Being around all that greenery and the trees is supposed to help ease your stress. Dr. Frank Lipman, integrative medicine specialist and author of “How to be Well,” explains that even if you live in a city nowhere near a forest, you can head to a botanical garden or park to get the same benefits.

Lipman says surrounding yourself with nature for a short time a few times a week or better yet - everyday - can have a positive effect on your mental state. "Being fully present in nature puts you in a state of pleasure and relaxation, which turns on your parasympathetic nervous system," he explains. "You remain aware, but with a more soft focus that is less information-loaded and more calm and peaceful."

Not only is forest bathing a cheap and effective way to relax and clear your head, Lipman says nature can also boost serotonin levels and he explains that when you’re around all that greenery outside, you’re proven to feel more “compassionate, connected and serene.” And who doesn’t want that?

Source: Hello Giggles


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