Ann, from Xhale had the pleasure of sharing the nurturing practice of forest-bathing with Travel Writer, Aoife Carrigy at Killeavy Castle Estate.
“Forest bathing can be thought of as like sun bathing, only instead of soaking up those rays and their health-boosting vitamin D, you are soaking up the immune-boosting benefits of living plants within the terrestrial landscape.
And yes, you get to keep your clothes on. Indeed, Ann has advised me to come wearing layers, so I’m cosy and snug within all this beauty.
Scientific studies have found that just two hours of mindful immersion in a forest setting can have measurable immune-boosting effects for up to 10 days, while the positive effect of a full day’s immersion can last for a month.
The experience has also been shown to boost our mood and energy as well as nurturing our creativity and problem-solving ability. Other evidence-based benefits include lowering levels of the stress hormone, cortisol; reducing blood pressure and blood sugar levels; and improving pain thresholds, concentration, memory and overall mental health.” Aoife Carrigy
Beautiful photograghy by Gareth Wray
Full story available here: https://www.ireland.com/en-gb/magazine/long-reads/northern-ireland-forest-bathing/