Walk through the treesbreathing with full lungs the fresh air of the woods and listening to the song of the birds is not just a pleasure for the senses, but it could also strengthen our immune system. A study conducted in Taiwan has in fact discovered that living or spending time in a forest environment It can increase the number and activity of Natural Killer cells (NK), essential for fighting viruses and cancer cells.
The researchers analyzed two groups of people: on the one hand, 90 forest workers who spent most of their time immersed in nature; on the other, 110 urban employees who lived and worked in Taipei, a big city. The result? People who lived in contact with greenery had one significantly higher percentage of NK cells in the blood Compared to those who lived in the city.
After five days in the green, the NK cell levels had almost doubled
But it doesn’t end there. To deepen the effect of the forest on the immune system, the researchers led a small group of volunteers to spend Five days surrounded by greenery by Xitou, a wooded area of Taiwan. After this experience, their levels of activated NK cells were almost doubled And the effect also remained several days after returning to the city.
The reasons for this beneficial effect are not yet completely clear, but researchers speculate that The air of the forest play a key role. In fact, trees release volatile substances called phytoncids, which could stimulate our immune system. In addition, relaxation and reduction of stress favored by the natural environment could contribute to the increase in immune defenses.
Even if further research is needed, this study confirms what we have always known in the end: Being in nature is good. Not only does it relax and improve our mood, but could also help us strengthen the defenses of our body.
So, the next time you feel the need to recharge the batteries, instead of a weekend in the city, try to spend a few days in a forest or natural park. It could be a real cure -all for your well -being!
