What is eco therapy ?
SHINRIN YOKO
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“And into the forest I go to loose my mind and find my soul” JOHN MUIR
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The term shinrin-yoku was coined In 1982 by Tomahide Akiyama, then secretary of Japans ministry of agriculture, forestry and fisheries. Shinrin- Yoku translates to forest bathing.
Forest bathing is a contemplative practice of intentionally spending time with trees and can also be experienced as a type of meditation.
Meditation can ease psychological problems such as anxiety,ptsd,treat addictions and also promote the healing of many physical ailments
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The act of intentional, attentive time with trees can:
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Decreases fatigue and increases energy.
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Has immune system boosting, antiviral and anti carcinogenic benefits.
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Increase the ability to focus.
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Speeds up recovery from surgery or illness.
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Regulates the endocrine hormonal system.
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Lowers blood glucose.
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Enhances the ability to get a better night sleep.
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Increases brainwave activity in young adults.
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Positively affects elderly patients with chronic heart failure.
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When we go for a walk in the woods we feel better because we are breathing cleaner air and this can reduce symptoms of asthma.
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Exercising in a forest is more efficient because our bodies don't have to work as hard to take in oxygen, and also mildly cleanses our organs.
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Trees emit vibrations which cure headaches quicker than taking an analgesic- so go and hug a tree next time you have a headache if not before!
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