Following my last column extoling the virtues of loving birds and hugging trees, I have official confirmation there is scientific proof
that there are significant benefits in spending time in the bush.
I was made aware of this on a Radio New Zealand discussion on the picture of our probable next queen standing with arms spread wide in a stand of trees. The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, was apparently indulging in forest bathing, as part of her recovery from a recent cancer scare.
Forest bathing, a bit like sunbathing, but different, is scientifically confirmed as a way of improving human health as the body soaks up chemicals emitted by trees and some plants. These protect them from insect and bacterial attack.
These organic compounds have powerful effects on humans. Studies have shown that exposure to phytoncides can reduce stress hormone levels, lower blood pressure, and even enhance immune function by increasing the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which help fight off infectious diseases.
Forest Bathing originated in Japan as ‘Shinrin-yoku,’ and involves fully engaging the senses while spending time in a natural setting. Unlike hiking or exercising in the bush, forest bathing is about slow, mindful immersion, listening to the rustling leaves, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling the textures of the trees and soil.
This practice has been scientifically proven to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and boost cognitive function. So what are we waiting for? We’ve got a lot more trees than they’ve got in England and if it’s good enough for our future queen it should be magnificent for the peasants.
Also, it’s not as though we have to go far to find a tree in Taranaki. Pukekura Park, right in the centre of New Plymouth is alive with trees, some older than Christianity. There’s a 2000 year old Pururiri at the south end of Brooklyn’s Park. There is also a wonderful stand of 500 to 600 remnants of the orginao forest cover south of the main park. So we have got no excuse for not getting out into the wilds and hug a tree or two.