Practice Nature Gazing to Relax

At Genki World, we take important health discoveries and put them into practice. Can gazing at nature really help you relax? Can forest bathing reduce stress? Can even staring at a picture of nature on your desk have similar results? Overall, we found that being in nature – for an outdoor workout, a run or a hike – was calming and relaxing, helping to bring all of your senses into play. For some, gazing at a nature photo was also relaxing. Others found that having indoor plants in their homes or offices had a calming effect.

We invite you to read the research and test it for yourself, or share nature gazing by sending a Genki World card.

The Research: Gazing at a picture of nature for 40 seconds can help you relax, refocus, and overall reduce stress.

The Practice: Incorporate nature gazing into your life either thru a photo of nature, or by physically going outside into nature.

Our Experience:

Before work last week, I ran to one of my favorite parks. Once I got there, I walked several times through the middle path, which is almost like a tree tunnel. I found it very relaxing. The trees are huge and almost block out the sky. I got a feeling of protection. It was also calming to see the ocean through the trees.

– JH

Forest bathing… I never knew there were real studies and benefits of being in or gazing into nature! I suppose I’ve been somewhat doing this for most of my life just because I’m naturally drawn to greenery and ocean. I’ve also been more driven to bring more house plants into my home. It really does give a happy and relaxing vibe!

– EN

One of my favorite ways of engaging with nature is to go on a hike. The other week I went on a hike and tried to put forest bathing into practice. When on a hike, normally I get wrapped up in what I see. So it was interesting to try to experience the hike with all my senses.

When focusing on hearing I could hear birds chirping, the wind blowing through the branches, fruits/seeds dropping. Through touch I could feel the long grass against my legs, the cool breeze on my face, the light drizzle on my arms. I could smell the different fruit, the fresh smell of grass and trees. It was a very relaxing feeling and I felt it helped in relieving any stress I had because while focusing on all these things you forget about any worries or commitments you may have on a normal basis.

I enjoyed the forest bathing experience and will look to put it into practice more often, especially when I go on hikes.

– JD

Recently, I’ve been working towards living a healthier lifestyle which includes being more active and walking more. At first it was difficult to start a new exercise routine, but I’ve come to really look forward to my walks and that’s mostly because of all the nature scenery. Seeing so many different plants and trees along my walks has been so calming and peaceful. My walks are definitely not in the wilderness or somewhere remote, but just being outdoors, feeling the wind, hearing the leaves, and taking the time for myself has been so relaxing. 

I also try to bring nature into my apartment through indoor plants. Surrounding myself with the added greenery has made my living space more tranquil and helps me stay connected to nature even though I live in a city.

– LS

Nature is meant to be admired, explored, revered, preserved, protected, cherished and so much more. It inspired me to share the beauty that surrounds us in a fun and creative way!  Share your experience with a friend, family or pet!

Can you feel the wind on your face? ✔︎
Can you smell the grass, trees and flowers? ✔︎
Can you hear the birds, crickets and other wildlife? ✔︎

– ZC

Please share your nature gazing experiences!