Need a break from virtual reality? Try reality. Nearly half of all American adults have Hypertension or high blood pressure. This is caused by many things like a poor diet, lifestyle choices, and even stress. Stress and anxiety are on high worldwide. People today think they need constant hits of dopamine to reduce this stress, but in fact you can just step outside! The National Library of Medicine published a study in which 50 adults were divided evenly among plains of real grass and fake grass. For 10 minutes these individuals walked on the grass, and after the time was up, they checked the levels of relaxation and calmness. The individuals who were on the real grass experiences heightened relaxation. More shockingly, the real grass group had a drastically lower mean of systolic blood pressure. This in one study that shows the true power that nature has over our minds and bodies.
National Geographic published an article titled “Ultimate guide to ‘touching grass’.” This article mentions an important phrase “Forest Bathing”, ever tried it? Forest Bathing is simple, using all 5 senses you fully immerse yourself in nature around you. This article shares that many studies and experiments have shown how time in nature can reduce risk of diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and stroke. Forest bathing can also improve memory, and studies have shown that the chemicals that our trees release, when inhaled, improve our immune systems.
Have you ever found yourself in your home “trying” to relax? An expert in forest/ nature healing named Julia Plevin brings up many important points about nature and relaxation. Plevin explains that in nature you don’t even need to “try” to relax. You just step out into the forest and let nature do its thing. Plevin also explains the importance of walking on grass barefoot. This skin to grass contact is often referred to as grounding. Contacting the earth directly has been shown to reduce chronic pain, stress, improve sleep, and energy. Grounding is truly a cure for all, and the best part is completely free and is all around us.
To end on one last fact for you, the average American spends 37 hours a week on their phones. Imagine taking just one of those hours and immersing yourself in nature, doing more healing and good for your mind and body than the 36 hours on your phone will. So next time you’re feeling stressed, can’t sleep, don’t have energy, feel anxious, or struggle with diabetes or high blood pressure, just touch grass.
