In a world where stress and technology are omnipresent, nature offers a simple yet powerful escape.
One of the most traditional ways of immersing yourself in the energy of nature’s elements is
“forest bathing”.
This practice – which the Japanese call “Shinrin-Yoku” – simply involves spending time in the forest, immersing oneself fully in the natural environment, to soothe the mind and invigorate the body.
Forest bathing doesn’t require any intense physical effort like hiking or specific knowledge.
It’s simply a matter of walking calmly through nature, paying attention to sounds, smells, the sight of trees and the feeling of the earth beneath your feet.
It’s a meditative, contemplative practice that allows you to reconnect with your environment and the present moment.
Forest bathing can be seen as an exercise in mindfulness in a context that is more rejuvenating than everyday life.
Forest bathing is also known by the term sylvotherapy and has many therapeutic effects.
Numerous studies have shown that forest bathing has excellent health benefits.
Forest walks have been associated with a significant reduction in levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Miyazaki’s research revealed that participants showed a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure.
Those suffering from chronic stress states reported the greatest reduction in subjective feelings of hostility, depression and anxiety as a direct result of time spent in forest environments.
Disconnecting from digital distractions allows us to refocus on natural stimuli, promoting mental clarity. Berman has shown that spending time in nature improves cognitive function, particularly attention span.
Participants in this study showed a marked improvement in performance and concentration after a walk in the forest.
Forest bathing has been shown to stimulate the activity of NK (Natural Killer) cells, which play a crucial role in immune defense.
Dr. Qing Li of Tokyo Medical University has observed that inhalation of phytoncides, chemical substances emitted by trees, helps strengthen the body’s natural defenses.
Contact with nature has a positive impact on one’s mood, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
According to a study by Park, participants in forest bathing sessions reported an improvement in their general wellbeing compared to those in urban environments, underlining the benefits of nature in combating feelings of isolation.
In a confined office environment, where we often spend long hours in front of a screen, the concentration of positive ions can reach high levels, which can contribute to stress and sleep problems.
Negative ions, on the other hand, are abundant in nature and play a crucial role in our wellbeing. They promote a more balanced atmosphere, reducing stress and improving the quality of our sleep (meta-analysis by Perez).
By immersing ourselves in a natural setting rich in negative ions, forest bathing helps to restore our energy and calm our minds, offering us a real escape from the harmful effects of our work environment.
In every walk with nature
one receives far more than he seeks.
– John Muir.
These oils, naturally present in the air of fir forests, improve cell oxygenation and promote deep breathing, essential for physical and mental wellbeing.
When you inhale these essential oils, they penetrate the respiratory system, helping to improve oxygen circulation in the body.
This feeling of freshness and lightness can be prolonged in the office by diffusing fir essential oils, helping to create a soothing, revitalizing environment.
When employees are tired of meeting rooms and PowerPoint presentations, it’s time for a change of scenery, and to swap suits for comfortable sneakers!
Offering teams a revitalizing half-day in the great outdoors is a wonderful gift to make up for the many hours spent in the office.
Yoga@Office offers FOREST DETOX, a rejuvenating stroll in the heart of nature, where employees free themselves of toxins, both physical and mental, while discovering practical tips on mindfulness, breathing and detox food.
After a good dose of fresh air, the team continues with an indoor yoga and relaxation session, ideal for releasing any remaining tension.
We conclude this escapade in style with a tasty green juice or a comforting herbal tea in winter, offering a final boost. These beverages bring the benefits of plants and support the cellular detoxification initiated by deep oxygenation and walking.
Time spent amongst the trees,
is never wasted time…
– Katrina Mayer
Ready to recharge your employees’ batteries? Get in touch with us!
We’d be delighted to discuss how we can pamper your teams.
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