SHINRIN YOKU

This is what the Japanese call walking among the trees, which literally means a forest bath. Karoshi is what they call death from overwork. In a way, forest bathing is a return to the roots. It is an answer to the widespread phenomenon in Japan of working beyond one's strength, which destroys physical and mental health. The first nature therapy centre was established there in 1982. The effectiveness of this practice, which originated in Buddhism and Shintoism, attracted the interest of scientists who recognised its validity and effects. Forest therapy centres and workshops are now available all over the world, but you don't have to use anyone's services to practise Shinrin Yoku. All you have to do is go to the forest. The Japanese recommend a walking pace of 1-2 km per hour, trees of at least 5 metres in height and a forest belt of at least 20 metres in width.

It is important not to use the phone. Walk quietly and if your thoughts are racing, let them flow until they calm down. The essence of forest bathing is to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the forest and absorb it with all five senses - sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch.

To enhance the effects of touch, many people practice "tree hugging". Sylvotherapy (from the Latin silva - forest), which involves hugging trees, is based on elements of meditation and the scientific knowledge that trees can actually help us feel better. This is because they release phytoncides that not only protect them from parasites and bacteria, but also inhibit the growth of fungi, viruses and protozoa. In other words, they are a kind of antibiotic for the trees. Interestingly, one hectare of deciduous forest (the one with leaves) produces about 2 kg of phytoncides in the summer, while the same area of coniferous forest (the one with needles) releases about 5 kg of these substances.

Phytoncides are also beneficial to humans - they act as antiseptics, cleanse the respiratory tract, regulate the heart rate and have a calming and protective effect on nerve cells. They are responsible for the waves of happiness and relaxation you feel when walking in the woods or huddling in the trees. They put us at rest, reduce muscle tension and improve overall health.

So if you are overtired, want to boost your immunity and reduce stress - go to the forest and cuddle up to a tree...