I've read so many articles over the past few years about the various health benefits of hiking, or even of just "forest bathing" (shinrinyoku), but the proof, as they say, really is in the pudding.
Since I've been getting out at least twice weekly into the woods and onto the trails, I've definitely noticed a marked improvement in my overall sense of well-being. I feel more relaxed, and have a more positive outlook. Hey, it's not like I was Negative Nelly before, anyway, but now I can say I've got a sense of euphoria.
So, you'd think this would lead me to question: Why don't I do this year round? Then I remember, Oh, yeah - because winter here is, like, minus 40 C. ! Then I remember that plenty of folks get out anyway.... And on I argue before, finally, caving in and just hibernating again once winter comes.
So, back to the health benefits of getting out into the woods for a bit each week. I highly recommend that everyone get into some green space for a spell each week. Forest bathing, or shinrinyoku, is a Japanese movement that has demonstrated superior psychological benefits. What is it, exactly? Well, it's just getting out into nature, taking short, non-strenuous, contemplative walks. Sitting for a while surrounded by trees. Ahhhh. Can't you feel it already?
And I'm not kidding - I remember when there was a resurgence of the movement when I lived in Japan. I'd be out mountain biking on an unmarked trail in Nowhere Land, when suddenly I'd see an elderly man or woman, just sitting there. In the woods.
Additionally, the elderly in Japan are generally MUCH healthier than we in the west are. I remember hiking solo on a known trail. I was alone, enjoying the peace, huffing and puffing and struggling up some freaking steep mountains. I got to the top, victorious, to find.... a whole troop of 80 and 90 year olds sitting there well before me, having a mountain top snack of sushi!
And so, I am writing this little post as a reminder to my 40-something self: Stay active, eat sushi, and bathe in nature!
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