Nature

The Benefits of Nature

We in the Netherlands, like most Western countries, live in a busy society full of stimuli. Think traffic jams, noise, an overdose of digital information and increased urbanization. We spend more time than ever indoors behind screens. As a result, we as humans are becoming increasingly distant from nature, which has consequences for our health.

Spending time outside is incredibly important for your physical and mental well-being. Whether you are hiking, biking or running through the woods, getting out in nature is very important for every person.

Being outside in nature calms you down. You can clear your head for a while and recharge with new energy. The fresh air in the forest is full of oxygen, through the trees a lot more than in an area with little greenery. And the particulate pollution is actually lower. As a result, you experience a real health boost. Stress hormones like cortisol decrease and happiness hormones like serotonin are released. Have you ever noticed that certain "problems" suddenly don't seem so important at all when you're out in nature? You're more in the moment and less in your head, which helps you put things into perspective. After a walk you immediately feel lighter and a lot more relaxed.

Shinrin Yoku

Nor is it for nothing that Japanese are so fond of Shinrin Yoku, or forest baths. You take a "bath" in the forest, so to speak, by being consciously and silently present in the forest. Besides reducing stress, it also boosts your immune system. Experience it yourself by visiting the forest more often or take a forest bath.

Our bodies are not made to sit all day. When you exercise, you often automatically get a fresh perspective on certain things going on in your life. In addition, exercise is essential for your metabolism. And your metabolism, especially your gut, has a lot of influence on how you feel.

Within our program, we are outside a lot, doing hikes, nature walks and getting sucked into nature during that week because it brings peace, balance and new energy.