Being with trees - day 10

Let’s take our hearts for a walk in the woods and listen to the magic whispers of old trees.

I love that quote so much because it exactly describes my feeling of awe as I set out through a wood or forest.  Some are awed by the sight of breaching whales or the majesty of elephants.  For me it is the feeling of oneness and connection I experience when I’m in the presence of trees.


It is said that we have become an indoor species and the comfortable pleasures of the digital era means we have to consciously make time to connect with nature.  However, it seems that when we do, it repays us by pouring healing energy into our bodies.


Trees are the other half of me..

Trees are the other half of our breathing system. Being in the forest is like getting to the root of our breath - being where it begins.   Almost everything we need to survive physically must be bought, even in some places, clean water, vital for survival.  But it’s so easy to take for granted the next breath and then the next without  ever having to think about whether this breath is available to us. Perhaps the total peace experienced being around trees whether in the park or forest,  is the recognition that we are each a little of the other.  Alive in part, because of the other.


Being with trees.
 
Getting out to the woods and forests and being with trees has become a national healing therapy in Japan where they call this practice Shinrin Yoku which literally means being with trees and has been proven to help boost immunity, reduce stress and combat stress related problems and fatigue.

Trees emit essential oils called phytoncides to protect themselves from germs and insects and inhaling these is believed to actually improve the immune system and contribute to healthy brain function.  Studies in Japan show that students perform better in exams and have better memory recall after a Shinrin Yoku exercise.

And on top of that the combination of being in the forest and standing barefoot (when it’s safe to do so and the temperature is favourable!) is highly therapeutic.  

The science bit…

Dr. James Oschman, an expert in the field of energy medicine and biophysics, says that standing outdoors in your bare feet following tissue injury or inflammation anywhere in your body allows electrons (to) migrate into your body and spread through your tissue.  Any free radicals that leak into healthy tissue will immediately be electrically neutralised. Added to this is that we are infused with a sense of grounding or returning to our roots.

Today’s restful exercise is to plan a walk in the forest - taking it slow.  This is a sensory experience so allow your senses lead the way.  Breathe deeply knowing that each breath is contributing to your wellness, the effects of which will benefit your immunity for up to 30 days!  Bring a picnic and turn off your phone.  

        Be aware of the contact between your feet and the earth.  
        Walk as if kissing the earth with your feet.
                                                
                                    - Thich Nhat Hanh

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