I spent some time recently mountain biking in the forests of Derby, Tasmania. Derby is an ex- tin mining town which is now centred on mountain biking. And mountain biking is like an adrenaline fuelled version of yoga. It’s yoga on speed: one pointed focus, great use of core strength and good flexibility is an added bonus. So many things make Tasmania breathtaking: the coastline, the flowers, the sandstone buildings, and the wildlife and of course the trees. Trees of such grandeur and such reverence, these ancient, old growth forests were like stepping into a cathedral filled with wisdom, peace and timelessness.

So why do humans love trees so much, and love being in the presence of trees? Forest bathing, known in Japan as shinrin yoku, has made popular the calming effects of being amongst the trees and observing nature. A wonderful way to de-stress and boost health, a big part of the benefits of forest bathing are the phytoncides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or “essential oils” given off by trees. These chemicals have natural antimicrobial and insecticidal qualities that protect the tree from germs and parasites. These same chemicals like a-pinene or d-limonene to name a few, encourage natural killer (NK) cell activity in the human body. NK cells are cancer-fighting proteins in our bodies.

The 1984 Biophilia hypothesis explains mankind’s desire to interact with nature and our inherent love for trees and green spaces. This theory has its roots in evolutionary psychology and proposes that environmental pressures have shaped humans to evolve with biological predispositions that draws them to be around natural stimuli. Like forest bathing, the biophilia hypothesis showcases how positive exposure to nature can bring about an abundance of desirable benefits for mankind, such as improved self-esteem, better cardiovascular health and reduction of stress levels.

The opposite also holds true. A lack of interaction between man and nature can negatively impact physical health, mental wellbeing and social wellbeing. Called the nature deficit disorder, a lack of time spent in nature, especially for children, results in a wide spectrum of behavioural problems.

Urban planners use trees to reduce crime in suburban areas. Using the city of Chicago, researchers found that for every 10% increase in tree canopy cover, crime rates went down on average by 10% for assaults, narcotics crimes, robbery and battery. These findings held after controlling for factors like the socioeconomic status, poverty, unemployment, and education of the residents. Why would this be? Well, more trees and more exposure to nature reduces the stress hormone cortisol. Time in nature also enhances oxytocin levels and dopamine. Anxiety decreases and happiness increases. Little wonder humans adore trees and tree-filled spaces and we should all be motivated to protect and revere these giants of the world. For now, and for future generations.

Margot Wagner
Yoga Under the Bodhi Tree

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