If you live in Nanaimo, you’ve probably heard of “forest bathing.”
Forest bathing is the Japanese practice of immersing yourself in nature, and can improve both your physical and mental health, making it popular with health-conscious Islanders!
Spending more time offline, and in nature, is becoming increasingly popular. So much so that people are carving out time in their routines to immerse themselves in nature.
In this article we’ll cover the health benefits of spending time in nature, and why installing a deck or patio could help you improve your health! For those lucky enough to live in an area surrounded by nature, an easy way to enjoy the benefits of forest bathing from the convenience of your home is by adding a deck or outdoor space to the home.
The Environmental Protection Agency reports that the average American spends 93% of their life indoors, spending just 7% of their lifetime outside. These numbers are staggering considering the health benefits that are easily accessible, and free, just by spending time outdoors.
How Having an Outdoor Space to Forest Bath at Home Could Improve Your Health
Research suggests spending time in nature is a form of natural medicine. Spending time forest bathing can improve your sense of physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. It has also been linked to a reduced risk of early death.
With full time jobs, families, and the responsibilities of home ownership, it can be hard to find the time to relax and forest bath. We hope this list of health benefits will motivate you to create an outdoor space as part of your home to enjoy daily!
Increased Happiness. Scientists aren’t sure of the exact reasons why, but studies show spending time close to nature makes you happier. The next time you’re having a down day, drop the phone and head outside for a mood boost!
Reduced Stress. Along with an increase in happiness comes reduced stress. And reduced blood pressure and heart rate. Research suggests spending time outdoors has as much of a mood boost for your brain as meditating.
Better Brain Habits. Spending time in nature has been shown to increase creativity, concentration and mental clarity. If you’re banging your head against a wall trying to solve a problem, try taking 10 minutes outside and seeing if your brain can process better after.
Dr. Strauss, psychiatry instructor at the Cambridge Health Alliance, has noted that the visual aspects of being outside can contribute to the soothing effect is has on your brain. “Having something pleasant to focus on like trees and greenery helps distract your mind from negative thinking, so your thoughts become less filled with worry.”
Finding Your Space to Forest Bath
Whether you have your own sundeck at home, or an outdoor oasis in your backyard, finding a space near you will help make forest bathing a regular habit. For best results, find a routine of being in nature that works for your schedule.
To enjoy the mental boost of nature bathing, just make sure you find the nature around you pleasing.
Forest Bath from the Comfort Of Your Home
If you need help building an outdoor oasis as part of your home, we’d love to help! As a local, family-run business, we care about building spaces for you and your family to enjoy together. Citywide Sundecks is Nanaimo’s top sundeck installer. Contact us today for a free estimate on making your dream deck a reality!