Natural resources foster healthy habits and reduce stress

“Forest bathing” is a term for immersing oneself in forests and other natural environments. A research-based framework shows the benefits of forest and natural environment immersion, including increased physical and mental well-being, reduced stress, improved creativity and happiness. This can lead to a happier family, community and work environment. However, participation is limited because of a lack of access and knowledge of forest therapy.

Tollgate Farm is an education center for Michigan State University Extension with 40 acres of beech-maple forest situated in suburban Metro Detroit. Extension educators became certified as forest therapy guides and began offering seasonal forest therapy walks. A grant from the Prevention Center, along with support from Extension, the Novi Community Coalition and Novi Community Schools helped create the program. Participants receive a drawstring bag with a book, a forest therapy journal and several mindfulness tools.

Through this initiative, nearly 500 people participated in public programming opportunities and through tailored walks for community groups. Participants included educators, first responders, hospice workers, therapists, teens, health professionals and many others. Several participants reported reduced blood pressure, a sense of calmness and peace, a reduction of depression and an enhanced sense of well-being.

Project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) funds. Photo courtesy Bob Nichols, USDA.