The Science behind     Forest Therapy

Trees and plants emit compounds called Photoncydes, which have a physical effect on the human body, and which are abundant within natural settings. When breathed in, photoncydes trigger an immune response, which, after spending just 2 hours in the forest, can last for up to 30 days. 

Negative ions in the air, which are abundant in forests and around moving water, help to balance the body's electrical charge. As with photoncydes, negative ions can also boost immune function. 

Forest Therapy, with its focus on connection to nature and awareness of the mind and body can help to calm the sympathetic nervous system and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system. This enables the  body to relax, slow down and absorb the positivity of the forest. This, in turn can affect the body's reaction to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, stress, depression and panic disorders.

Extensive research has been carried out into the health benefits of Forest Therapy. An NHS research  authority study found that Forest Therapy can help to improve the mood, soothe anxiety and improve physical wellbeing. Other studies have found that Forest Therapy can help reduce blood pressure, improve sleep quality and boost immunity. 

The benefits of Forest Therapy are becoming so recognised that governments across the world are  promoting what is known as 'green prescribing' - using the natural world to help heal our minds and bodies.

References are available on request.