Page 27 - Landscape-Issue 156

RECREATION FEATURE

Forests, nature and green open spaces
support physical, mental and emotional
wellbeing. Forest therapy can be considered
as a restorative journey and an intentional
practice that creates a partnership between
people and nature.

(e.g. high in α-pinene), such reports are scarce in South Africa. It is nervous system activity is stimulated so the body can prepare for
generally understood that evergreen and coniferous species tend rest (Song, Ikei et al. 2015).
to have higher phytoncide emissions, especially the cedars, spruces, • Improved mood: cortisol levels decrease after a walk in the forest,
conifers and pines. One way to recognise the presence of phytoncides improving stress levels, anxiety, anger, confusion and depression.
is that they often have an aroma - the ‘pine smell’ in a pine forest is (Meneguzzo, Albanese et al. 2021).
the aroma of alpha-pinene phytoncide. • Lowered inflammation: trees are natural air filters and together
In South Africa, species of conifers and evergreens such as with oxygen, phytoncides naturally fight inflammation. These
Podocarpus henkelii are among the best available candidates for compounds can lessen symptoms for asthma and are a possible
environments likely to emit higher phytoncide levels. Although preventative factor for brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s (Chae,
there’s no current published work confirming exactly how much Lee et al. 2021).
phytoncide each of these emits, these trees share characteristics
(evergreen foliage, conifer-like structure) associated elsewhere with Forest therapy isn’t just a regular walk in the woods — it’s a deeper,
higher phytoncide output. more intentional experience, guiding one through mindful sensory
Today, forest therapy is widely accepted and recognised as an awareness, gentle movement and yogic breathing. These practices
evidence-based practice that supports public health by promoting aren’t just feel-good rituals; they are backed by scientific evidence
physical, emotional and psychological well-being within forest and the goal goes beyond simple relaxation. Forest therapy is
environments or any other natural green spaces. designed to nourish both mind and body, supporting overall
wellbeing in a purposeful way. It can be considered as a restorative
Benefits journey - an intentional practice that creates a powerful partnership
Specific benefits on individual health and wellbeing include: between people and nature.
• Immune system boost: phytoncides have been found to boost For forest therapy guides, this means combining cutting-edge
disease-fighting cells by as much as 50%. Natural killer (NK) cells scientific research with hands-on experience to design sessions that
are the human body’s defence against infection such as viruses are not only enjoyable but also backed by real evidence — creating
and cancer. (Suresh Ramanan 2019). meaningful, science-supported nature experiences for participants.
• Lower blood pressure: spending time in forest areas, with cleaner
air and natural surroundings, lowers blood pressure. (Rajoo, About the author
Karam et al. 2020). Maliga Naidoo has an academic background with 35 years’ experience
• Protects against obesity and diabetes: regular walks in a forest in exercise prescription, leisure, parks and recreation. She is committed
can help in controlling blood glucose levels and weight loss. to the restorative power of natural outdoor environments to improve
(Ohtsuka, Yabunaka et al. 1998). lives and foster healthy communities. Based on her experience of
• Increased energy levels: breathing in the natural and calming designing public spaces with a focus on social equity, inclusion, health
ingredients in the air of forests can increase energy levels and and wellbeing, she was drawn towards training as a forest therapy
ward off fatigue. Middle-aged to elderly people benefit from guide. This encourages individuals and communities to participate in
greater endurance levels for an active lifestyle (Yeon, Jeon et al. natural spaces and address the burden of lifestyle diseases.
2021).
• Improved sleep: participation in forest therapy activities in a quiet Text and photos by Maliga Naidoo, Academy of Leisure Sciences.
forest setting slows down the heart rate and triggers hormones References have been omitted but may be obtained from her. Email
for a deeper, more satisfying sleep cycle. Para-sympathetic info@academyofleisuresciences.co.za n

Check us out www.salandscape.co.za Landscape SA • Issue 156 2025 25