January 5, 2010
Forest therapy (2)
There are three main factors of the effects of forest therapy.
1. Aroma- Phytoncide
Phytoncide generally means the aroma of the forest. Selected plants give off these active substances which prevent them from rotting or being eaten by some insects and animals. Phytoncides work by preventing the growth of the attacking organism.
Phytoncides are reported to have the effect of decreasing blood pressure levels. They are widely used in Russian, Ukrainian, Chinese and Japanese medicine, including holistic medicine, aromatherapy, and veterinary medicine. In Taiwan, South Korea and Japan, people commonly engage in so-called forest bathing to breathe in phytoncides emitted by plant and trees, in order to improve their health.
2. Colors - therapeutic effects of the color green
Recent psychological research shows various trends in the feelings that people have towards different colors. Green has been shown to decrease blood pressure and stress levels. One way people can decrease stress is to place plants in plain view. Furthermore, many companies place plants in offices to create a more relaxing atmosphere.
3. Sounds – harmony in nature
Sounds in nature can reduce stress, reduce blood pressure, and help people relax. The sounds found in nature are called 1/f noise. 1/f noise includes the sounds of leaves in a tree, the ripples of the sea or ocean, a flowing stream, among others.
In addition to the three main factors mentioned above, people may feel more relaxed in nature as it has a positive effect on our overall health. Why not go for a nature hike, sit on the sand at the beach, or walk along a stream in the mountains?
