FARE Style

Forest bathing

A feel-good place

Strolling between trees in the forest and sniffing the scent of leaves, wood and earth – almost everyone has already experienced how beautiful it is. But where does this beneficial effect come from? Indeed, so-called forest bathing is not only a sensual pleasure, but also reduces stress and boosts the immune system. Scientists provided the proof long ago, and in Japan “Shinrin Yoku”, as they call forest bathing there, is even considered a kind of aromatherapy.

The green treatment

There are fresh leaves and shoots, ferns and mosses everywhere in the forest. Just the sight of so much green is a real anti-stress remedy for us. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, the so-called “resting nerve”. Light green also appears fresh as a colour and conveys a sense of freedom. The adrenalin level drops, we forget everyday life and the batteries can recharge. The immediate proximity of the trees further intensifies this effect, as studies have clearly shown.

Breathe in – breathe out

Even though there are 99 percent fewer dust particles flying around between oak, birch, fir & other trees than in the city: What makes the forest air beneficial are the terpenes. These tiny molecules are secreted by plants to communicate with each other. The main discussion topic between trees and plants is how fungi, bacteria and other pathogens can be fought off.

Our human immune system also reacts to the terpenes: It brings the body’s defences into position and forms lots of killer cells. These killer cells kill off the defective and degenerate cells in the body.

By the way, terpenes are not only inhaled but also absorbed through the skin. And the concentration in the air is particularly high after rain and in misty conditions.

Go out and enjoy

Forest bathing is quite simple: You breathe as deeply and calmly as possible and let nature take its effect on you. The attention has free rein and may discover something or other. If you feel like it, hug a tree, collect some stones or listen meditatively to the rustling of the leaves. Equipment for forest bathing is not necessary, but an umbrella proves to be a good companion. After all, rain and moisture are accompanied by extra terpenes in the air. So just pop the robust mini umbrella FARE®-Camouflage in your backpack; it even blends in visually with nature. A regular umbrella with a round crook handle is ideal for walking, such as the FARE®-Nature automatic regular umbrella with a forest motif on the inside of the cover. Anyone who prefers to keep their hands free when out and about should go for the FARE®-Loop regular umbrella with a practical shoulder strap for carrying it around.

Your perfect companions to dive into the forest

Photos: © Laura Pashkevich – stock.adobe.com, © roxana – stock.adobe.com, © yolya_ilyasova – stock.adobe.com, © Roxana – stock.adobe.com