Forest bathing benefit: Protection against obesity and diabetes
Increased adiponectin seems to be inversely related to insulin resistance and obesity. This substance is secreted by one’s fat cells and regulates our glucose levels, fat metabolism, and weight gain. Forest bathing lowers blood glucose levels, even in those with diabetes.
A study was performed where diabetic patients did a forest bathing walk every 8 months over the course of 6 years. Results showed that although their time spent forest bathing was extremely spaced out, their blood glucose levels still significantly improved.
Forest bathing benefit: Faster recovery from illness
A well-known study by Dr. Roger Ulrich, an architect specializing in healthcare building design, showed that gallbladder surgery patients increased their recovery time by simply looking at trees through a hospital window.
