Program Description
Event Details
Meet at the Clysta Willet Nature Trail head at the Clysta Willet Park.
Join in a peaceful calming adventure connecting to nature as we try shinrin yoku. This translates to forest bathing and is based on the Japanese art of forest therapy. As we breathe in the phytoncides from plants, slow down, focus on what is around us, and connect to nature through this guided experience we will enjoy the healing therapy of nature.
This is not a rigorous activity and the trails are ADA accessible.
Phytoncides are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or “essential oils” given off by trees. These chemicals have natural antimicrobial and insecticidal qualities that protect the tree from germs and parasites. So, a tree emits these active substances to create a field of protection around itself against harmful bugs, bacteria, and disease. Other green plants, like vegetables, do this too. There are thousands of phytoncides.
When humans breathe phytoncides in, they can produce many fabulous benefits inside the body. Some of the responses discovered by science include:
- Immune response: a 2-hour walk in the forest increases NK cell activity that can last for days
- Anti-inflammatory: common forest terpenes temper inflammation and reduce oxidative stress
- Nervous system: forest air creates a relaxation response and lowers nervous system activity
- Mood enhancing: exposure to forest air reduces cortisol levels and β-pinene has antidepressive properties
- Sleep: phytoncides like α-pinene enhance sleep
- Blood glucose: exposure to VOCs can reduce blood glucose levels