Do we realize how important it is to get out into nature and experience the positive effects on our health? Experiments on "Forest Bathing" conducted by the Center for Environment, Health and Field Sciences in Japan’s Chiba University took 280 subjects in their early 20s. and measured different variables--the subjects’ salivary cortisol (which increases with stress), blood pressure, pulse rate, and heart rate variability. They compared these measurements during a day in the city with a 30-minute forest visit. This is what they concluded: “Forest environments promote lower concentrations of cortisol, lower pulse rate, lower blood pressure, greater parasympathetic nerve activity, and lower sympathetic nerve activity than do city environments,” Amazingly, there are essential oils called phytoncide--found in wood, plants, and some fruit and vegetables--which trees emit to protect themselves from germs and insects. Forest air doesn’t just feel fresher and better—inhaling phytoncide seems to actually improve immune system function! City dwellers can benefit from the effects of trees with just a visit to the park. “Doses of nature” are even recommended as part of treatment for attention disorders in children to improve focus and mindfulness. Want to know more? Check out this link!
Have you ever heard of "Grounding" or "Earthing"?
All living things on our planet are connected to the ground’s electric energy. But in industrialized societies, we rarely go barefoot outside and for many decades, people have increasingly been wearing rubber and plastic-soled shoes that insulate them from electrical contact with the Earth. And we live and work above the ground, some in high-rises. I know I love going barefoot--taking my shoes off is usually the first thing I do when I enter my home--I just want my toes to be free! (and ofcourse it keeps the floors cleaner!) I also love walking thru grass and on the beach barefoot. There are many healing aspects of doing this that have been proven by research studies over the past few years, Including decreased levels of inflammation and pain, reduced stress levels and improved circulation. Isn't this amazing?! Learn more here.
So maybe it's time to reconnect with the earth! Try to go barefoot for a half-hour or so outside and see what a difference that makes on your pain or stress level. Do a before-and-after intuitive assessment of how you feel. You can sit, stand, or walk on soil, grass, sand, or concrete. These are all conductive surfaces from which your body can draw the Earth’s energy. Wood, asphalt, and vinyl are not conductive. Our world is so incredible and there's always more to learn, don't you think? Exposure to nature is essential to our well-being!
Be Well! Carol
As a personal trainer, I have my clients go without shoes at times to strengthen the foot and ankle and work on balance and alignment. This also helps avoid common ailments like plantar fascia. The integrity of the entire structure of the body starts with the foot! If you need help with these issues, or you want to start working with a trainer or a health coach--and maybe both--just reach out. I'd love to help you reach your life goals! You can contact me here.