Kochi: Former principal chief conservator of forests Dr. K P Ouseph has said that forest bathing, which is popular in Japan, South Korea and the US, can be emulated in Kerala as it helps people find health and happiness.
"Forest bathing is a new way of making lives more enjoyable. This is not a conventional bath in a water-body found inside a forest, but enjoying the smells, sights and sounds inside a forest. The process involves slow walking enjoying even the minute sights of colours, appreciating all sounds and fragrances inside forests," he said delivering the keynote address at the Beyond Square Feet lecture organised by Asset Homes in Kochi.
“Major ingredient of forest air is phytoncides, which contains anti-fungal and anti-viral chemicals which plants produce to protect themselves from the attack of pests and pathogens.
These are good not only for plants but also for human beings. Forest bathing eases our stress and helps us to think more clearly,” he said.
“Studies have proved that it can reduce brain fatigue, increase memory, reduce blood pressure and fight cancer, among other things.
For bathing in forests, one need not go to far-off forests as people can have it in city parks, gardens, sea shores, river banks, villages or any place with plenty of trees,” Dr Ouseph said.
