SHINRIN-YOKU

Shinrin-yoku is a Japanese term that translates to "forest bathing". It means taking in the forest through all your senses.

A topic that is becoming increasingly common in our modern life is stress. Regardless of the type of stress, it triggers a cascade of physiological changes known as the "fight-or-flight" response managed by the sympathetic nervous system. This is adaptive in the short-term, but long-term can be detrimental to your health and increase risk for chronic diseases like high blood pressure and cancer.

For many the source of stress cannot be eliminated. Fortunately, the impacts of long-term stress can be mitigated by enhancing the parasympathetic nervous system, the part of your nervous system responsible for countering the sympathetic nervous system with its "rest and digest" function.

Shinrin-yoku, is an example of a way to activate your parasympathetic nervous system. Studies have shown that being present in nature and engaging all your senses, will reduce stress, lower blood pressure and heart rate, reduce perception of pain, and improve mood, sense of calm and safety.

So, find yourself a patch of forest, turn off your phone, and take a slow walk through the woods. Note how the forest feels with your hands and feet. Savour the sights, sounds, and smells and let nature restore you.

Want to learn more about how your nervous system is doing? Please feel free to book in with me if you’re located in Toronto to find out how a naturopath can help you.

Dr. Cristina Allen ND
Naturopathic Doctor