This week, Givens Estates hosted a Wellness Fair, and our Life Plan Community Nurse, Kimberly Bailey, represented Givens Home First with a Forest Bathing Corner to share the importance of rest and recharging. You might be wondering—what is forest bathing? Don’t worry, it doesn’t involve an actual bath!
Forest bathing, or “Shinrin-Yoku,” is a Japanese practice of immersing oneself in a natural environment to reduce stress and improve well-being. It’s all about being present, breathing deeply, and soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature.
Kimberly took this concept to heart, setting up a cozy corner filled with lush greenery. She invited residents to sit with her for a few minutes to relax among the plants. To measure the impact of these moments of calm, Kimberly checked each resident’s blood pressure before and after their session. The results? Inspiring!
The Results Speak for Themselves…
- Resident 1: 120/80 → 118/68
- Resident 2: 138/80 → 120/68
- Resident 3: 139/80 → 122/80
- Resident 4: 142/80 → 122/74
- Resident 5: 142/82 → 124/80
- Resident 6: 130/90 → 120/80
Every resident saw an improvement in their blood pressure after just a few minutes of stillness surrounded by greenery. These numbers reinforce what we already know: slowing down and reconnecting with the natural world can have powerful benefits for our physical and mental health.
Why Does This Matter?
Healthy blood pressure is critical to overall wellness. Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80, but even small reductions in blood pressure can significantly reduce stress on your heart and arteries.
You can learn more about what’s considered normal blood pressure and tips for maintaining healthy levels here.
How Can You Recharge?
You don’t need a forest to embrace the benefits of forest bathing. Here are simple ways to rest and recharge:
- Take a walk in your garden or a nearby park.
- Pause to notice the beauty of a houseplant or flower.
- Practice mindfulness or deep breathing exercises.
- Carve out a few moments each day to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.
Kimberly’s work at the Wellness Fair was a powerful reminder that taking time to rest and recharge isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential for our health.
Ready to try your own mini forest bathing session? Find a peaceful spot, breathe deeply, and let nature do its magic. Your body—and your mind—will thank you!
