NATURE HEALS NATURE, BE IT!
- 4th March 2023
All living creatures, including humans, are miracles of nature. What better way to live and heal ourselves than being one with nature. Even research supports it and has shown that spending time in nature can have significant physical and mental health benefits. For instance, a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Health Research found that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress levels and improve overall mood. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that outdoor activities such as hiking and walking can improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
There are various practices around the globe which revolve around nature to make us appreciate it, spend time with it and preserve it. Some wonderful examples are:
. In Sweden, there is a unique law - Right to Public Access which grants people the right to cycle, walk, run, ski, ride, and camp on any land except private gardens or land under cultivation. This law applies to all forests, fields, beaches and lakes across the country.
. In Japan, Shirin Yoku is a term that dates back to 1982 which translates to “forest bathing”. This practice encouraged by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries is a way of life now. Shirin Yoku is not literally bathing in the forest but spending
time in the forest and observing the nature around you. It boosts both mental and physical wellbeing in a natural way.
. In Norway, Friluftslive is a way of life which literally translates to “open air living”. It puts great emphasis on spending more time in nature and living with nature without destroying or disturbing it. There are even courses in school that teaches Friluftslive.
. In India, Van Mahotsav ( Forest Festival) is one of the most renowned ecological festivals. It started in 1950 by the Ministry of Agriculture as an attempt to increase greenery in the country. Celebrated every year for a week, citizens across the country engage in plantation drives in the early monsoon season ensuring healthy growth of trees.
Even at SKÖG, the main pillar is our strong belief in nature and that it is only nature that can heal us completely. Our products embody the very essence of Nature and complement the Swedish way of life - a deep reverence for nature and a commitment to sustainable living. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that nature holds the key to our wellbeing. Whether it's the healing powers of a forest or the rejuvenating effects of a stream, nature has the ability to heal and restore us. With this, we believe that our products are a reflection of this philosophy, and we take great care to ensure that each ingredient we use is natural, gentle on the skin, and promotes a sense of calm and relaxation.
HOW CAN WE SPEND MORE TIME IN NATURE?
1. GO FOR A WALK
Walking or hiking is a great way to spend time in nature and get some exercise. Find a nearby park, trail or nature reserve and take a stroll in the fresh air.
2. PLAN A PICNIC
Picnics are a fun way to spend some time with your loved ones outdoors. Picnics are a timeless tradition that people of all ages have enjoyed for generations. It is a great way offer to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with family, friends, and nature.
3. GET SOME MORNING SUN
Studies show that even getting 30 minutes of the morning sunlight improves sleep, strengthens immune system, reduces stress, fights depression and can actually give you a longer life.
4. TAKE A BREAK
Take a break from electronics, social media, and other distractions, and spend time just relaxing in a park or on the beach on daily basis at least for 30 minutes to reduce stress and anxiety levels as well as a better physical and mental health.
5. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Participate in outdoor sports like cycling, running, kayaking, or swimming.
6. GARDENING
Start a garden, whether it is a vegetable garden or a flower on. Speinding time planting and tending to the plants can be a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy outdoors.
It's heartening to see that despite the many challenges we face as a global community, people around the world are increasingly recognizing the importance of reconnecting with nature. Many are turning to traditional healing practices that incorporate natural ingredients as a complement to modern medicine. Across the globe, people are realizing that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve overall health, and provide a sense of connection to something larger than themselves. Whether it's through activities like hiking, gardening, or simply taking a break from technology and enjoying the outdoors, people are finding ways to incorporate nature into their daily lives. This renewed appreciation for the natural world is an encouraging sign that we are beginning to recognize the importance of living in harmony with the planet.
The healing power of nature is something that transcends culture, language, and geography. Whether we're in Sweden, or anywhere else in the world, we are all part of the natural world, and our well-being is intimately tied to the health of the environment around us.