Hi, I’m back!
Today, I want to introduce an interesting concept to you: tree hugging.
I have always been a fan of hugging, or I can say that physical touch is my love language. I love expressing my love and compassion by touching and embracing others (of course, within appropriate boundaries). Science has proven numerous benefits from hugging and cuddling with our loved ones, but you might be surprised to know that we can experience similar benefits when we connect with nature.
Tree hugging can be a new therapeutic way for us in modern society to release stress and find comfort. This post will acquaint you with the concept of tree hugging and providing you all surprising facts about tree hugging benefits.
What is tree hugging practice?
Have you ever heard about the term “forest bathing”?
The Japanese practice of ‘forest bathing’ (known as Forest Therapy or Shinrin Yoku) is considered to help us to heighten our senses. The best place to quiet the mind and find peace is near nature. It is a practice to develop reciprocal relationships with Great Nature.
This practice is more than just a walk into the forest; it teaches us to focus on the sights, sounds, smells, textures, and even tastes of the forest environment, allowing ourselves to fully connect with nature and let go of everyday stressors.
You can learn more about this practice here:
So what if you don’t have regular access to a forest? Then you can just hug a tree in your backyard, or in your neighborhood, or simply plant one!
When done the right way, with the right intention, I believe it will bring the same benefits to you as forest bathing.
Tree hugging benefits
Tree hugging might seems like a weird thing to do. But you’ll want to rethink it after reading about the tree hugging benefits.
I’ll show you a fun and relaxing way to embrace those trees and nurture your mind, body, and soul.
Get ready for some serious tree hugging goodness!
Mental health soothing
Spending time in nature, including hugging trees, has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Interacting with trees can help lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.
Being in nature and interacting with trees can have positive effects on mental health. It can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, increase self-esteem, and boost overall well-being.
A study published in the journal “Environmental Science & Technology” found that folks who live in areas with more trees have lower stress and anxiety levels. Just being around trees can help ease your stress and anxiety, no kidding!
Nature provides us with a sense of peace and tranquility, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Being in nature makes us feel connected to something bigger, boosting our self-esteem and making us feel good overall.
Besides, tree hugging can enhance your sense of connection with the natural world. It allows you to appreciate the beauty and complexity of trees, fostering a deeper understanding of their importance in our ecosystem.
Enhanced creativity and inspiration
Many people find that spending time in nature, including hugging trees, stimulates their creativity and provides inspiration. The tranquility and beauty of natural surroundings can help clear the mind and spark new ideas.
Spending time in nature will help your mind to clear up, and the clutter of everyday thoughts to fade away. Suddenly, you’re open to new possibilities and fresh ideas that seemed elusive before.
It’s like nature has this magical ability to awaken your creative spirit. So, don’t be surprised if hugging a tree leads to a burst of inspiration and a flood of innovative thoughts.
Physical activity
Tree hugging typically mean you got to spend time outdoors, which encourages physical activity.
Being in nature and embracing trees naturally leads to getting active. Whether you’re exploring a park, going for a hike, or simply seeking out a tree to hug, you’re engaging in physical movement. It’s a two-for-one deal: you connect with nature while giving your body some well-deserved exercise.
Walking, hiking, or exploring natural areas where trees are present can provide exercise, improving cardiovascular health and overall fitness.
I used to set a goal for myself: to hug a new tree every day. I know it may sound a bit weird, but it have gained me lots of benefits. Not only did it get me out of the house, but it also led me to discover new places and hidden gems that I had never known about before.
The quest to find a tree to embrace took me on mini adventures and introduced me to some incredible spots.
A simple goal like that actually helped with my mental and physical health. It was a refreshing break from my routine, and the connection with nature brought me a sense of joy and well-being.
It helps with your manifestation.
If you are a manifestor, hugging trees helps you more than you would think. Hugging trees is considered an act of letting go. It’s an act of delivering your desires into the power of nature. Hugging trees gives you comfort and embrace, which helps to elevate your vibrational frequency. It’s an act of love, and we all know that love is such a high vibrational frequency that can help lift us up.
Whenever I feel stuck and frustrated about my current circumstances, or I feel like my manifestation just never comes, the best thing is to give love and receive love. And if you don’t have someone beside you right now, you can just go outside and hug a tree, give it love, and receive back the love from nature which helps you to heighten your vibrational frequency and get unstuck with your manifestation.
When you hug a tree, just simply think that you are giving your desires to the power of nature. Everything will work out for you. Nature will take care of everything for you. And it will.
So, how to really hug a tree?
Find a suitable tree
Look for a tree that resonates with you.
Is there any criteria for it? The answer is no.
Any tree that makes you feel like you want to give love. In fact, you should hug every tree you see that you are capable of doing so. It can be a tall and majestic tree in a forest or a comforting tree in a nearby park.
People always say they feel the most resonance when they hug a tree that they themselves have grown, and by doing that, they feel like they are giving love and also receiving love. If you have a garden with a few small trees, don’t hesitate to give them a hug once in a while.
I used to have a lemon and an apple tree in my backyard, and sometimes I would just go outside, embrace their little leaves, and give them a hug.
Some studies do suggest that trees and plants grow better when they receive more attention and positive thoughts from humans.
Scientists from the Royal Horticultural Society found out something cool: chatting with your plants can actually speed up their growth.
IKEA ran a really interesting PR campaign once. They wanted to do something for Anti-Bullying Day, so they set up this experiment with two plants. One plant got compliments, while the other was kind of “bullied” by kids saying mean stuff to it. Surprisingly, after 30 days, the plant that got compliments was doing great, while the bullied one looked all sad and wilted. It was a cool way to show how kindness can make a real difference, even for plants!
In another study titled “Psychological and Physiological Effects on Plant Growth and Health by Using Positive and Negative Words,” it shows that the plant to which we spoke positively and used encouraging words grows beyond comparison to the plant to which we spoke negatively and used discouraging words.
Approach the tree
Gently approach the tree with a sense of reverence and respect. Take a moment to observe its beauty and presence.
Ground yourself
Stand or sit comfortably near the tree. Take a few deep breaths to relax and ground yourself in the present moment.
Slowly reach out and place your hands on the tree trunk. Feel the texture of the bark beneath your fingertips. You can also lean your body against the tree or even wrap your arms around it in an embrace.
Close your eyes if you feel comfortable doing so. Take a moment to tune into the sensations and energy exchange between you and the tree. Focus on the connection you’re establishing.
Be present in the moment and engage your senses. Notice the gentle sway of the branches, the rustling of leaves, or the sounds of nature surrounding you.
Express gratitude
While hugging the tree, express gratitude silently or out loud. Thank the tree for its presence, beauty, and the positive energy it shares with you.
Using this time to express gratitude for other blessings in your life, such as being healthy and able to be outside to hug a tree, or the health of your family and loved ones, or any small strokes of luck you experienced during your day. This will help magnify your blessings many times over.
Stay as long as you need. Take your time and stay connected with the tree for as long as you feel comfortable and drawn to do so. There is no rush—allow yourself to fully absorb the experience.
This is a short clip about A Stanford-led study finds quantifiable evidence that walking in nature could lead to a lower risk of depression.
So, I hope you enjoy the post of tree hugging benefits.I also hope that I’ve sparked some new ideas for you to ponder with. Don’t knock it of before give it a try. You never know what might await you. I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, so feel free to share them with me.
Thank you and see you next time!
Nature has always been our greatest teacher, offering solace, inspiration, and rejuvenation to those who seek it. This captivating article beautifully highlights the often-underestimated practice of tree hugging and sheds light on its incredible benefits.
In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s all too easy to lose touch with the natural world around us. However, as this article suggests, taking a moment to embrace a tree in a heartfelt hug can be a powerful way to reconnect with the Earth and restore our inner balance.
Scientific research has shown that tree-hugging, also known as “forest bathing” or “shinrin-yoku” in Japanese, can have profound effects on our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. The simple act of wrapping your arms around a tree trunk can provide a deep sense of grounding, tranquillity, and connectedness.
I totally agree with you. Nature is a boundless source of wisdom, and it has so much to teach us if we are open to its lessons.
The concepts of “forest bathing” and “shinrin-yoku” that you mentioned are fascinating subjects that I’ve also explored and studied. They emphasize the importance of immersing ourselves in nature to experience its healing and rejuvenating effects.
Thank you once again for sharing your thoughts, and I’m glad to hear that you’re also interested in healing with nature.
There is something about (large) trees that attracts me a lot, every time I see a large tree, who has been here on the planet before me, I think about the past and every little thing breathing and alive on this planet. Trees are so important for everyones well being. Besides hugging a tree, there is so much joy in just sitting against a tree, reading a book or meditating.
Thank you for sharing your experiences.
I definitely agree with you that there is always something serene about big trees that makes us feel peace and protected.
Sitting against a tree is also a way for us to experience and spend time in nature. Their stillness and unwavering strength can help us ground ourselves, find inner peace, and reconnect with the present moment.
One of the greatest secrets to good health I have discovered is appreciating nature and taking advantage of it positively. I like your expression on how best to approach tree hugging. The first step of the search shows you value the tree. And by approaching it gently shows respect and genuine love. Lastly, we must be grateful for everything we get from nature. It is the best way to benefit from it.
I’m glad to hear that you found my article helpful.
Trying tree hugging can certainly be a surprising experience in terms of how it makes you feel and its ability to alleviate stress and sorrow.
Thank you once again for sharing your thoughts and experiences.