Close your eyes and take a deep breath: a walk through the forest is known to reduce stress and lift your spirits after a nerve-wracking day. Anyone who spends a lot of time in the forest will instinctively feel it: the forest has a beneficial effect. But why is that? Countless scientists all over the world are trying to answer this question. One thing is certain: compared to city air, forest air has 90 per cent fewer dust particles and contains substances that have a positive effect on health. We explain the positive effects a leisurely walk in the forest has on our body and mind.
Worth knowing: Why the forest is so good for us
Anti-stress effect
The forest has a relaxing and calming effect on our psyche. When we take a walk through the forest, stress hormones are reduced and we feel in harmony with ourselves again.
Flight of thought
In addition to the stress-relieving effect, the forest is also the ideal place to let your thoughts run free. Spending time in nature is known to increase creativity. The tranquillity of the forest creates space for new ideas and positive thoughts.
Strengthening the immune system
The forest floor and forest air have a demonstrably positive effect on the immune system and strengthen our defences. The secondary plant substances and essential oils from the needles and tree bark have a positive effect on our defences. A walk in the forest also helps to lower blood pressure and regulate the cardiovascular system.
Increase in
Ability to concentrate
Who hasn't experienced this? You try with all your might to concentrate, but it just doesn't work. What helps is spending time in the thicket of the forest, because it boosts your brain power. The forest first slows the brain down and then helps it to work better again.
Cleansing the lungs
As already mentioned, forest air is characterised by the fact that it contains fewer dust particles and has been proven to contain many healthy substances. The clean air of the forest is good for the lungs and bronchial tubes. Colds also disappear more quickly with regular visits to the forest.
Relaxation of the senses
The green of the trees and the stillness of nature are a blessing for strained optic nerves. Especially after a long day in front of the screen, the tranquillity of the forest can have a relaxing effect on the eyes. Your hearing is also relieved when you spend time in the forest, where the motto is: birdsong instead of street noise and babbling brooks instead of ringing mobile phones. The pleasant soundscape of the forest is good for your hearing and has a relaxing effect.
In addition to all these positive influences of the forest on body and mind, it can be said in conclusion that on dreary days, the thicket is simply the best way to lift the mood and bring everything back into harmony. Convince yourself of the beneficial effects of the thicket and look out for the positive influences of the forest on your next walk. What are you waiting for? Off into the countryside!