Title: Nature Therapy for Anxiety: Forest Bathing & Outdoor Calm

Feeling overwhelmed? Step outside.

Nature therapy, or spending mindful time outdoors, is a proven way to calm an anxious nervous system. In fact, Japanese doctors have prescribed "forest bathing" (known as Shinrin-yoku) for decades to help reduce stress and prevent burnout. Introduced as a national health initiative in the 1980s, forest bathing is now backed by science: researchers in Japan have found that time in the woods reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), lowers heart rate and blood pressure, and improves mood.

One key reason? Trees emit natural compounds called phytoncides — antimicrobial particles that help plants fight disease. When humans inhale these chemicals, they stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, boosting immune function and promoting calm.

You don’t need a mountain trail or deep woods to benefit. Even a short walk through a park or sitting beneath a tree can activate the calming part of your nervous system (the parasympathetic branch).

Try this:

• Take a 15-minute break in a nearby green space.

• Walk slowly. Breathe deeply.

• Look around with curiosity — notice leaves, light, and movement.

• Let your senses be your guide instead of your thoughts.

Research shows this kind of mindful nature exposure reduces cortisol levels, lowers blood pressure, and boosts mood — no workout or Wi-Fi required.

You can think of it like recharging your internal battery. A little nature goes a long way.

Want more tools to regulate your nervous system? Read the full blog series