Why is it that, even in storybooks and movies, the forest is enchanting and life-giving? The sights and sounds bring about relaxation and peace and are often even featured on white-noise machines to bring calmness and rest.
Research shows that it’s not just a Hollywood or fairy-tale trick: being in a forest — in or around a lot of trees — actually carries with it mental and physical health benefits.
And it’s not just in forests! The majority of U.S. residents live in urban and suburban areas, where gardens and parks — and even trees on streets — make up greenspaces considered “urban and community forests.” These areas are just as important to urban Americans as forests are to those with access to them.
According to Japanese research, being around trees:
- Reduces stress
- Improves mood and sleep
- Lowers blood pressure
- Boosts the immune system
- Increases focus and energy
- Accelerates recovery from illness or surgery
Boosts immune system
Trees and other plants produce phytoncides that protect them from insects and have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that help them fight disease. When we breathe in fresh air, we also breathe in these airborne chemicals, and our bodies respond by increasing our white blood cells that boost our immune systems.
Lowers stress, blood pressure and regulates mood
Research shows that simply looking at trees and/or being around them helps reduce the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline and also helps reduce blood pressure, anxiety, depression, anger, confusion and fatigue.
Hastens illness and surgery recovery
Fear, pain and a general disruption of routine are common causes of stress during illnesses and especially surgeries. Science shows that patients with “green views” take fewer painkillers, stay in hospitals less time after surgeries and have fewer complications than those without a view of nature from their hospital windows.
Sharpens focus
With the world at our fingertips, 24/7 news cycles with one breaking story giving way to another and the internet in our faces morning, noon and night, it’s hard — if possible — to shut our brains off. Being in nature — looking at trees, rocks and plants, and listening to birds and babbling brooks — takes away all life’s run-of-the-mill distractions. It helps us focus on the here-and-now and helps us decompress and renew our energy.
Arborists in Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol, Tennessee
Trees impact our health in all the best ways. They reduce our stress and blood pressure, sharpen focus, regulate moods, boost immune systems and have healing properties. What’s not to love? Our professional ISA-certified arborists with Promier Tree in the Tri-cities area have the experience and know-how to answer any questions you may have about trees. Give us a call at (423) 872-2988, or contact us online today.