With a non-aerobic workout, such


as weight training, strength and core- building, you may not feel the “endor- phin high” you’d get from an aerobic workout. Instead, you’ll get a feeling of strength and power which replaces worry and fret.


5 Walks in Nature In a series of studies, scientists found


that when people swap their concrete confines for a few hours in natural surroundings—forests, parks and other places with plenty of trees—they experi- ence increased immune function. Stress reduction is one factor, but scientists also chalk it up to phytoncides, the airborne chemicals that plants emit to protect them from rotting and insects and which also seem to benefit humans. One study published in January included data on 280 healthy people in Japan, where visiting nature parks for therapeutic effect has become a popu- lar practice called “Shinrin-yoku” or forest bathing. The scientists found that being among plants produced lower concentrations of cortisol, lower pulse


rate and lower blood pressure, among many other health-boosting benefits. Studies in which men took two-hour walks in a forest over two days resulted in a 50 percent spike in levels of natural killer cells. Another study found an increase in white blood cells lasting a week in women exposed to phyton- cides in forest air. We are fortunate in New Mexico


to have so many trails and hikes avail- able to us. The Dale Ball Trails in Santa Fe are a simple and lovely introduction to some tree-filled scenery. Good health doesn’t have to be


expensive or complicated. Begin with these basic starting points, and listen to your body thanking you!


Lorin Parrish followed a lifelong pas- sion for the healing arts, nutrition, the environment and well-being. In 2004, she founded BODY of Santa Fe and established a place for people from all walks of life to gather and share in a diverse community center. See ad on page 2.


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Northern & Central New Mexico


NaturalAwakeningsNNM.com


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