For this reason, “Shinrin-Yoku” is a Japanese word for bathing in a Japanese forest, walking in a forest without an end goal. Exposure to nature lowers cortisol levels, thereby reducing people’s stress, while natural sounds increase serotonin, a feeling-good hormone. Stress levels drop dramatically when children spend time surrounded by trees and natural landscapes. The sight, sound and smell of the forest can have a calming effect on their minds and bodies.
Forests provide children with rich sensory experiences
Natural walking and natural immersion provide children with a rich sensory experience in the form of flowers, leaves, sand and mud, the sounds of birds, insects and running water, the aroma of flowers, the aroma of flowers and the colors of different birds, sunsets and animals. This exploration of nature offers different opportunities for children to develop and demonstrate their interests and abilities that would otherwise not be explored in an academic setting.
Stability to free children from modern pressure
In essence, children may feel stressed to lack understanding or do something. This enables children to be themselves and frees them from the pressure of getting used to traditional environments day after day.
Develop their muscle and exercise coordination
It can help children improve immunity, develop balance, and strengthen muscle and agility when children spend time in nature on hiking, running, climbing trees, hanging, building tents, playing outdoor games, kayaking, fishing and other activities. Importantly, it helps them coordinate as well as the development of fine motors and overall movement.
Nature develops curiosity
Exploring the forest provides a great opportunity for children to observe and understand the natural world. Observing various animals and plants in the natural environment will inspire children’s curiosity and wonders about the world. It can also help them understand the importance of nature, the delicate balance of life around us, and how various ecosystems thrive.
Connection with science
Studying wildlife in the forest introduces children to scientific concepts such as observation, data collection and research methods. They learn how scientists study animal behavior, habitat and ecosystem roles. These experiences can inspire future scientists or conservationists among young explorers.
Improve children’s sleep
In addition to strengthening the immune system, interacting with nature through forest bathing also improves children’s sleep quality. The calming and soothing effects surrounded by trees and greenery can promote relaxation and relieve stress. This, in turn, can help the child fall asleep faster, experience deeper sleep cycles, and wake up feeling refreshed and energetic.
Help with breathing problems
Trees emit phytoncides with antibacterial properties that can reduce respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis. Children can breathe these beneficial compounds and support their overall respiratory well-being by spending time in the forest.
The unfortunate thing we live in the world today is that many urban environments do not have access to a good forest area. But it is important for parents and guardians to consciously bring their children to forest walks and forest vacations to promote connections with the natural world. It is important to do a nature trip once a week, a forest accommodation or holiday once a month so that children don’t miss the nature’s healing and teaching abilities.
Hope this works, thanks.
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