Go Hug A Tree

Ever hugged a tree in public? It's a little weird, right? No. It's therapy and you could be inspiring another whilst helping yourself. Honestly, being called a "Tree Hugger" is a compliment if you ask me. Tree hugging provides a direct connection to life, offering a break from modern digital life to something rooted and ancient. It is supported by science, Indigenous traditions, and contemporary therapy.

Studies have found that hugging trees can boost your mood by releasing feel-good hormones like oxytocin, while also lowering stress and anxiety. Getting up close and personal with trees can help balance your blood sugar, improve sleep, and enhance overall health. Forest Therapy, which has research to back it up, is practiced all around the world.

Barefoot hiking up a waterfall with snow still melting around me. Idylwilld, California

Hugging trees is like getting a cozy, leafy hug that lifts your spirits and eases stress. Spending time in forests fills you with those good negative ions (yep, negative is good here), making it a great way to chill out and boost your brainpower, especially for kids. Even a quick tree hug can help you feel more connected to the earth. If you’ve never tried the ancient practice of forest bathing, think of it as enjoying the forest vibe—not hiking, not running, just soaking it all in. This practice is catching on around the world and getting nods from health experts and researchers. It's not just a healthy activity, but also super easy—just show up and be open to the experience.

Engaging in Forest Therapy has numerous health benefits, with the best being improved mental health through the reduction of negative energies and the enhancement of a positive affect. Through forest bathing, we experience a connection to nature that brings about well-being benefits difficult to replicate in other settings.

Next time you pass by a beautiful tree, consider pausing for a moment. Rest your hand on its bark, take a few deep breaths, and if it feels appropriate, give it a hug. It might seem a bit silly, but you could notice a change. It's not about being anxious or desperate—it's about reconnecting with something ancient, healing, and profound. In our hectic lives, the unexpected benefits of hugging a tree remind us that not all solutions come from a bottle or a therapy session. As you explore your interest in trees, keep your heart open to the incredible benefits these sturdy giants can offer.