If you’ve ever felt an inexplicable urge to rip off your shoes and run barefoot through the grass, congrats! You’re already on your way to practicing eco-therapy.
Science (and, let’s be honest, common sense) tells us that spending time in nature can do wonders for our health.
What Is Eco-Therapy?
Eco-therapy, also known as nature therapy, is the practice of connecting with nature to improve physical and mental well-being. It’s not just about taking a casual stroll in the park (although that helps). It’s about actively engaging with the earth to harness its therapeutic benefits.
Two popular eco-therapy practices are earthing and forest bathing—both scientifically backed ways to boost health and, even fight cancer.
Earthing
Earthing (also called grounding) is a form of eco-therapy that involves putting the body in direct contact with the Earth—like walking barefoot on grass, sand, or dirt. This practice allows your body to absorb the Earth’s free electrons, which have been shown to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and balance the nervous system.
Benefits of Earthing:
There are many benefits of earthing to include:
Reduces Inflammation – Studies show that connecting with the Earth’s electrons helps neutralize free radicals, reducing chronic inflammation.
Improves Sleep – Grounding helps regulate circadian rhythms, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.
Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress – Being barefoot in nature lowers cortisol levels.
Supports Cancer Recovery – Inflammation is a major driver of cancer, and grounding has been shown to reduce inflammation markers. Some holistic practitioners recommend earthing as part of a cancer recovery plan.
How to Practice Earthing
Walk barefoot on natural surfaces (grass, sand, dirt) for at least 20-30 minutes a day.
Use grounding mats or sheets indoors if walking barefoot outside isn’t an option.
Swim in natural bodies of water—lakes, oceans, and rivers count too!
Forest Bathing
Forest bathing (Shinrin-Yoku in Japanese) is an eco-therapy practice that involves immersing yourself in a forest environment, engaging all your senses to soak in nature’s goodness.
Benefits of Forest Bathing
There are many benefits of earthing to include:
Boosts the Immune System – Trees release compounds called phytoncides, which help increase natural killer (NK) cells that fight infections and cancer.
Lowers Blood Pressure – The peaceful ambiance of the forest helps lower stress hormones and reduce blood pressure.
Enhances Mental Clarity – Studies show that time in the woods improves focus and cognitive function.
Supports Cancer Treatment – Research suggests that forest therapy enhances immune function, making it a great complementary therapy for those undergoing cancer treatments.
How to Practice Forest Bathing
Find a forest, park, or wooded area and spend at least 30-60 minutes there.
Walk slowly and breathe deeply—this isn’t a cardio workout.
Engage all senses: listen to the birds, feel the bark of a tree, smell the fresh air.
Leave your phone in your pocket on Do Not Disturb.
Who Should Try Eco-Therapy?
Short answer? Everyone. But especially:
People dealing with chronic inflammation, autoimmune issues, or cancer.
Those suffering from anxiety, depression, or burnout.
Office workers who spend way too much time under fluorescent lights.
Anyone who wants a natural, side-effect-free way to boost their health.
Are There Any Risks?
Eco-therapy is generally safe, but let’s be real—nature has its quirks.
Watch out for sharp objects when walking barefoot.
Check for ticks if you’re spending time in wooded areas.
Don’t hug poison ivy. Just... don’t.
Avoid polluted areas—grounding works best on clean, natural surfaces.
That's Wrap
Eco-therapy isn’t just a hippie trend—it’s backed by science. Nature offers powerful, drug-free medicine. So, kick off your shoes, hug a tree, and let nature do its thing!
Ready to give it a try? Your health (and the trees) will thank you.
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