Forest therapy and hiking, anyone?

( PICTURES AND WRITE-UP BY CO- AUTHOR, TOH HL, MY FORMER PHYSIC TEACHER.)

“Forest therapy can have a positive impact on the oxygen levels in your brain,” Dr. Albers explains. That’s because you’re surrounded by trees and vegetation that engage in photosynthesis. The result: Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the air.

“The forest has higher oxygen levels compared to urban or indoor environments,” she continues. “As you breathe in the fresh air within a forest, you’re inhaling oxygen-rich air, which can support proper oxygenation of your blood and subsequently benefit your brain function.”

Forests are also chock full of phytoncides, which are antimicrobial compounds released by trees and plants.

“Inhaling these compounds during forest therapy sessions may benefit the immune system and contribute to stress reduction,” Dr. Albers says. “And the pleasant aromas of nature can have a positive impact on mood and emotional well-being.” In other words, forest therapy is also aromatherapy. Add the mental health benefits of walking to this cocktail, and you’ve got a recipe for better mental and physical health on your hands.

But chances are you won’t see doctors endorsing forest therapy as a cure for physical or mental health concerns any time soon. The evidence just isn’t there. But here’s the thing: It doesn’t really matter. Enjoying a few hours soaking in nature isn’t going to hurt you, and there’s a decent chance it could help. So, if you think you’d enjoy it, you.