Just 30 Minutes of This Can Decrease Inflammation and Stress

STORY AT-A-GLANCE

• Nature therapy, aka forest bathing, is the practice of immersing oneself in the sights, sounds and smells of nature for improved health in body and mind
• A feature of nature therapy is grounding or earthing — putting the body in direct contact with the earth's surface — which may also provide both physiological and behavioral benefits
• Grounding can benefit the body; walking barefoot outside or sitting, working, or sleeping indoors on a grounding mat can improve sleep and may reduce pain. Studies also show that grounding reduces inflammation and improves circulation
• The best way to ground yourself and your pet is to spend time outdoors with your bare feet and your pet's paws in direct contact with the earth; if you or your loved ones can't get outside regularly, grounding mats can be used indoors for both human and furry family members