Forests cover about one-third of Earth’s land area and are home to more than 80% of terrestrial biodiversity. They provide food, water, clean air, shelter and livelihoods to over 1.6 billion people, prevent soil erosion and floods, and even support our physical and mental health.  In short, healthy forests are essential for a stable climate, abundant wildlife, and healthy human communities.

But our forests are under threat. Decades of logging, land conversion, fire suppression (followed by catastrophic wildfires), and now climate change have left many temperate and boreal forests depleted or disturbed.

Our modern-day research backs up what many cultures and traditions have long known: forests heal. They do so through a combination of biochemistry (phytoncides and hormones), neurobiology (fractals and brain waves), and psychology (metaphors and mindfulness). By spending time in woods and forests we can tap into an ancient source of wellbeing. Forest bathing is an “evidence-based preventive medicine” that makes us healthier and happier. Next time you feel stressed or tired, consider taking a walk in the forest. Your mind and body may thank you.