Tree Hugging

When you hear “tree hugger,” you probably think of a long-bearded, old hippie who hasn’t showered in weeks. And although there is a severe negative connotation surrounding the practice, hugging trees can, believe it or not, be good for you. 

The symbiotic relationship humans have with trees plays a part in the health benefits associated with tree-hugging. In the novel, Blinded by Science by Matthew Silverstone, Silverstone claims that tree-hugging calms and strengthens both the mind and body. Trees’ calming effect on people can lead to a lower heart rate and blood pressure. In addition, hugging a tree boosts oxytocin, the hormone responsible for love, which relieves tension and increases happiness.

Tree hugging has been around for generations in many different cultures—for example, the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, which translates to forest bathing. The purpose of shinrin-yoku is to live in the moment while engrossing your senses in a natural, untouched environment. This practice motivates people to spend time in nature.