“Nature is not only a beautiful spectacle but also a profound teacher.”
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As we observe the intricate dance of life in the wilderness, we often find reflections of our inner workings, providing insights into our deepest selves."

For centuries, trees and herbs have been central to human medicine systems across communities and civilizations. We know they have medicinal powers that cure numerous physical illnesses. For example, rosemary can help hair growth, relieve muscle pain or inflammation as well as ease digestive problems. It has anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting abilities. Beyond their medicinal value, plants offer more benefits than our bodies alone. Rosemary is famous for enhancing memory and cognitive function. Likewise in Ayurveda, a tradition steeped in botanical wisdom, many herbs are venerated for their antidepressant properties. Adaptogens like holy basil and ashwagandha help soothe nerves by relieving anxiety naturally thus promoting emotional equilibrium showing how closely linked our physical, mental, and emotional well-being truly are. It's all about recognizing how everything in our lives – our bodies, minds, and emotions – is connected. By embracing nature's healing power and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world, individuals may harness its therapeutic potential to cultivate comprehensive states of wellness.

Photo by  Leonid Privalov Team  on  Unsplash

Nature has a way of keeping us rooted in the present, which encourages mindfulness and awareness of our surroundings. The rhythmic sounds, sights and smells of nature that provide a calming influence on the mind, help to relieve stress and anxiety. Studies indicate that spending time in natural settings reduces cortisol levels, a stress hormone, leading to relaxation and peace.

There is a practice in Japan called shinrin-yoku or forest bathing. Shinrin means “forest” in Japanese while yoku means “bath.” Therefore shinrin-yoku means taking a bath in the forest atmosphere or, more precisely, experiencing the forest through our senses. Forest therapy engages multiple senses and inhaling oxygen does good things for your brain's oxygen levels. Forest therapy also involves noticing and sensing as opposed to judging or evaluating. This sensory immersion distracts attention from negative thoughts and promotes a positive mental state. 

Time Outside in Nature; Now a Remedy Prescribed by Doctors

Photo by  Priscilla Du Preez ������������ Team  on  Unsplash

A team of researchers, from the University of Toronto led by Marc Berman discovered that the natural particles released by trees; aerosols, can positively impact our health, happiness, overall well-being and sense of abundance. Additionally, a study published in the journal’ The Lancet’ by Dan Crouse and his team revealed that residing near trees and green spaces within a two-block radius can contribute to a lifespan.

Dr. Li, renowned for pioneering forest bathing practices, is both a doctor specializing in Forestry Medicine and an immunologist at the University of Nippon in Japan. His groundbreaking research demonstrated that spending time in forests boosts the immune system's ability to control natural killer (NK) cells and protein cells that fight cancer.

A recent research study conducted by the Max Planck Institute, in Germany has revealed that living in proximity to trees can improve brain flexibility. The study focused on individuals in Berlin and found that those residing near trees tend to have healthier brains with a larger and more active amygdala, the part of the brain known for its role in reducing stress.

Finally, Dr. Aruni Bhatnagar, a professor at the University of Louisville in Kentucky believes that trees could potentially serve as an effective preventive measure, against heart disease and strokes compared to statins. Leading the Green Heart Project, Dr. Bhatnagar aims to plant 8,000 trees in Louisville as part of the $14.5 million initiative. Members of the Green Heart Project team say that “instead of giving someone a pill, we are giving them greenness.”

If you're experiencing anxiety or other distress, either contact “Heart It Out” or find your nearest tree!