Nature, an Inexhaustible Source of Joy
Wildflowers in a sunny meadow, tall trees in a shady clearing, fresh grass by a river… Nature never ceases to amaze us and gives us a joy that is as vibrant as it is spontaneous and accessible.
Nature, a Source of Health
In “Cerveau et nature“, published in 2022, Michel Le Van Quyen, a neuroscience researcher at INSERM, attempts to explain why nature does us so much good by detailing the brain mechanisms at work in the presence of trees, mountains, or the sea. Drawing on numerous scientific studies from various disciplines, he describes the positive impact of nature on health in all its dimensions: physiological, cognitive, intellectual, and even psychological.
The Forest, a Source of Calm
In a chapter dedicated to the specific benefits of the forest, Michel Le Van Quyen shows how the tranquility of the forest soothes the nervous system and improves the immune and endocrine systems. He notably mentions several pioneering studies conducted in Japan in the 1990s that demonstrated the benefits of “shinrin-yoku,” or “forest bathing,” practiced in the form of very slow, mindful walking in the woods.
Confirmed by numerous subsequent studies, these studies have highlighted the profoundly calming and restorative properties of the forest, which, through its gentle and discreet stimulation, helps to suspend inner ruminations and promotes concentration on the present moment.
Through its subtle scents, the forest activates the brain’s tranquility circuit and provides immediate well-being. It rejuvenates us, infuses us with energy, and takes care of us. In short, it illustrates the incredible healing power of nature.
If you would like to experience it, Magnolia Way offers a poetic sensory immersion, loosely inspired by Japanese forest bathing, in the Sierra de Collserola Natural Park, 30 minutes from Barcelona.
Find all the practical information about forest bathing in Barcelona here.