Have you ever been somewhere + noticed yourself feeling more zen? More relaxed? More at peace? Happier? Have you ever wondered what it was that was helping you feel this way?
There is actually a scientific reason!! It is the negative ions found in these places. Negative ions are odorless, tasteless + invisible molecules that once they reach our bloodstream, produce biochemical reactions that:
Help alleviate depression
Relieve our stress
Boost our energy
Increase metabolism
Help regulate sleep patterns
Boost immune system function
Kill or inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses, and mold species
Increase our levels of serotonin, the hormone that stabilizes our mood + sense of well-being as well as increases our happiness!
How amazing is that? Negative ions can have such a positive impact on your life, but where can you find negative ions?
Mountains ⛰
Waterfalls 💦
Beaches 🏝
Among plants 🌱
Where the sun kisses your face 🌞
Truthfully, I believe you know when you are experiencing them + I also believe there is a lot more going on in these places thanks to Forest Therapy. The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy has a vast supply or resources + research that will deeply encourage you to spend more time outside grounding yourself in these peaceful landscapes.
AND - these practices are not new! Of course I would argue they started when we began walking the earth. However, we do know that the term Shinrin-yoku (also referred to as Forest Bathing) was coined by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries in 1982.
So do yourself a favor + bath yourself in negative ions as often as possible! 😊