Do you remember how time stopped when you laid down in the grass and stared into the clouds on a summer day? How watching the trees sway in the wind made you feel like you could just lay there forever? A new wellness movement, known as Shinrin-yoku, proves that spending time in nature can boost not only your well-being, but also your skin condition.
The movement, originating from Japan, includes walking and spending time in a forest as a way to reduce stress and has positive effects on the immune system.
Scientist have found that trees release particles that are absorbed by humans when in a close proximity, affecting our bodies in a positive way. Forest patterns and moving forward without any notion of where we'll end up affects us mentally.
Retreats are already being built for people to practice Shinrin-yoku for longer than a day. Visitors are offered saunas and hot tubs elevated in trees with only a pane of glass separating them from the enchanting woodland. There are organized daily walks for those who like to stay close to ground.
By retreating to the forest, this eco-therapy is said to breathe new life into you. Spending time in nature can give you a digital break and reduce your heart rate, something much needed in this decade. Since stress and air are two factors that affect the skin and other external parts, this movement suggest a snowball-effect of improvements.
Retreats are being built all over the world, however you don’t have to travel across the globe to visit one. Natural ingredients in health and beauty products are popular, but don’t forget to include nature itself as part of your beauty routine.