We spend a lot of time looking after our dogs and ensuring they have the best life and we often forget that we need some self care too. The Japanese practice of Forest Bathing is the perfect way to de stress and unwind. Its completely accessible to all of us and very easy too.
Research shows that spending time around trees reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, improves your immune system and accelerates recovery from illness and trauma.
How do you do it?
Well this part is very easy. While finding a forest would be the ideal scenario it is not essential. A small wooded area is fine and even one tree will work. Walk amongst the trees slowly, breathe deeply and observe all that is around you. Concentrate on the sights and smells, sit leaning against a tree if possible. Try to spend at least 30 minutes doing this. Bring a hot drink and sit under the trees and enjoy. When amongst trees or hugging a tree you release a hormone called Oxytocin, which is the hormone of love and trust and will give you all the good vibes.
So go on, Get hugging a tree, You know you want to!
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