When so much around us is changing so fast, we need to create our own stability. Expanding our ability to do this is the first step to becoming antifragile.
One of the four ways that Inner Leadership recommends for building inner stability is by spending time in nature. And as more people are discovering, this not only reconnects us with Nature it also reconnects us with ourselves.
Now even the World Economic Forum has recognised that “civilized life may be causing you psychological trauma” and “disconnection from nature can be bad for our mental health.”
They also describe a solution: the Japanese practice of forest bathing. This has now been proven to reduce stress and lower our heart rate and blood pressure.
It turns out that trees give off essential oils called phytoncides. These protect the trees from insects and bacteria. And somehow, when we breathe in these oils, we also boost our immune systems.
Scientists are discovering other reasons why spending time in a forest will bring us benefits. But the bottom line is that spending time in a forest will make us happier, healthier, and more productive. It will improve our feelings of well-being, increase our energy levels, and make us livelier. And it will also strengthen the feelings of stability and connection that provide our first step to becoming antifragile.
When will you next go forest bathing?
Adapted from Inner Leadership: a framework and tools for building inspiration in times of change.
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Photo By Joseph via StockPholio.net