Shinrin-Yoku: The cure for modern environments

Most people think of walking as just another form of exercise.

But you're not getting all the benefits walking incline on a treadmill. (Still better than nothing)

Walking in nature, specifically the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, offers much more than just movement.

Rather than just burning calories, immersing yourself in nature leads to powerful health benefits that modern environments simply can't provide.

What is Shinrin-Yoku?

Shinrin-Yoku translates to "forest bathing", but there's no water involved.

It's simply walking mindfully in nature, bathing your senses, breathing in fresh air, and absorbing the environment around you.

I first came across this practice during a trip to Japan in 2017, and it's been a part of my life ever since.

Japanese researchers have found that spending time in forests:

• Reduces stress hormones
• Boosts the immune system
• Improves overall well-being
• Enhances metabolic health markers

Why Shinrin-Yoku is a cheat code for health

We already know walking is great for metabolic health, but walking in nature is even better.

Sunlight combined with nature provides a whole host of benefits you simply can't get walking on a treadmill indoors. Here's just a few:

• Improves metabolic health: A study on Shinrin-Yoku showed it significantly lowered blood sugar in type 2 diabetics more than could be expected from walking alone. A recent ground-breaking study showed that infrared exposure reduced blood sugar levels by 27% compared to the control group. Infrared light also improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and enhances mitochondrial function. When outdoors, we are exposed to infrared light at all times of day, which penetrates deep into the body. Forests or green covered spaces amplify this effect. Green plants reflect infrared light, giving us even more of this healing energy.
• Strengthens your immune system: Trees release phytoncides, natural compounds that enhance your body's defence system. Studies show that exposure to these compounds enhances natural killer (NK) cell activity, which helps fight infections and even target cancer cells. This immune-boosting effect lasts for at least 7 days after time in nature.
• Resets your nervous system: Naturally lowers cortisol (stress hormone) and shifts your body from fight or flight to rest and repair mode.
• Reduces blood pressure: Lowers blood pressure naturally by improving circulation and heart health. It inhibits the renin-angiotensin system (which regulates blood pressure) and reduces inflammation, making it a powerful tool for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Increases serotonin levels: Makes you feel calmer, sharper, and more energized.

I'm working all day, how can I get most of the benefits?

If you're working, go for a walk in any green space with trees and fresh air on your break or lunch.

Walk at a comfortable pace, ideally without your phone.

If you need to check a few messages over lunch, no problem. Just get outside.

You will be more productive, feel calmer, sharper, and more energised, especially in the afternoon at work.

Sun, rain, wind or snow you will get the benefits.

If you want effortless improvements in health, energy, and longevity, it's time to step outside and reconnect with nature.

If modern environments are the disease.

Then nature is the cure.