How Nature Reduces Caregiver Stress

What if we told you there was a sure-fire way for you to reduce stress, feelings of anger, difficulty sleeping and depression?

Well, there is, and it doesn't require a Doctor's order.

That's right...it doesn't come in a pill...and it's so manageable that you can work it into the most demanding of schedules.

It's called Shrinrin-Yoku...a Japanese term that means "forest bath"...

And not the kind that leaves you with puckered fingers and toes.

It's all about letting nature in through your ears, eyes, nose, mouth, hands and feet.

And while two hours is recommended for optimal results, you can experience positive effects after just 15 minutes...

Life-changing effects like a drop in blood pressure, reduction in stress, and mental clarity.

Sound too good to be true? Give it a go and see for yourself.

We did and it works!

You don't need a forest to get the good out of the experience...you can "bathe" in a park, neighborhood, or any quiet area with a tree canopy.

Pick a spot and follow these steps by Dr. Qing Li, author of "Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness."

• Turn off or silence your phone so you can be fully present.
• Wander aimlessly or sit in silence, allowing your body to take it in
• Pause to look more closely at a leaf or notice the sensation of the path beneath your feet.
• If you go with someone else, make an agreement to resist talking for at least 15 minutes.

Listen to the birds singing and the breeze rustling the leaves in the trees.

Look at the shades of green in the trees and the pattern on the leaves.

Place your hands on the trunk of a tree and feel the roughness of the bark.

It may sound strange, but all of these things provide comfort and give your brain and body a much needed break.

Still not convinced? Don't just take our word for it...

Florence Williams, author of The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative writes...

"We suffer from an epidemic of dislocation from the outdoors and it's destructive to our mental and physical health. The research is straight-forward...the more nature, the better you feel."

If you're a family caregiver who feels you can't leave your loved one, this is especially important.

The National Family Caregivers Association reports that depression and high levels of the stress hormone cortisol, both of which often accompany caregiving, take a toll on the body's immune and cardiovascular systems.

So, don't wait until you suffer your own health crisis to make a change.

Take the first step and ask a family member or friend to help out while you take time for yourself

Now, go hug a tree!