Take a “Forest Bath”; It Is Good For You (Continued from last week)

A 2009 study conducted by Qing Li, research professor at the Nippon Medical School in Tokyo, measured the activity of human natural killer (NK) cells in the immune systems of the participants before and after exposure to forests on weekends. (NK cells are important because they respond rapidly to viral-infected cells and tumor formation, and are associated with immune system health and cancer prevention.)

Turns out that following these weekend forest visits, the study subjects showed significant increase in NK cell activity, with positive effects continuing for a month. These results are due to various oils, generally call phytoncide, emitted by trees to protect themselves from germs and insects. Forest air doesn’t just feel fresher and healthier–inhaling the phytoncides in forest air actually seems to improve immune system function!

At Hanselman Landscape, we understand and promote the therapeutic value of being with trees and encourage you to create a haven of trees and shrubs around your home so you can take a “forest bath” anytime!

We’d love to help make this invigorating and healthful experience a part of your daily experience.

Contributed by Betty Hanselman

Gardener’s wife (& frequent “forest bather”)

Based on an article by Ephrat Livini

https://www.weforum.org/stories/2017/03/the-japanese-practice-of-forest-bathing-is-scientificially-proven-to-be-good-for-you