Immersing yourself in nature, self-massage, sauna or “enjoying the feeling of doing nothing” are stress relievers favored by people in many countries.
Stress can harm physical and mental health. Studies show that different forms of relaxation can reduce the risk of chronic health problems, restore energy, and give people a more positive sense of self. In different cultures, people have distinct forms of healing that help increase work performance and recover from physical and mental injuries.
Japanese people “forest bath”
In Japan, walking in the woods is more than just a hobby. It has a unique name: shinrin-yoku and is considered a natural medicine, improving sleep quality, mood and immunity.
According to Qing Li, an associate professor at Nippon Medical School in Tokyo, the practice of forest bathing can open people’s five senses to the natural world, calming the nervous and endocrine systems. Furthermore, breathing in phytoncides, or organic compounds released from plants, helps fight bacteria and stimulate disease-fighting white blood cells. Phytoncide is a natural antibiotic that forest plants release into the air to protect themselves from dangerous germs and microorganisms.
The Japanese form of immersing yourself in nature. Image: Lemon Troyal
Self-massage in India
For generations, Indians have often massaged themselves before bathing daily with essential oils to feel alert, calm and focused. This is part of Ayurveda, the ancient Hindu system of medicine. Research shows that a 6:30 a.m. massage once a week can reduce stress.
The therapy is suitable for the modern lifestyle of people who often have to use smart devices such as mobile phones, TVs, and tablets. Self-massage helps reduce anxiety, restlessness, loss of concentration and insomnia, while also supporting the body’s natural circadian rhythm or regulating the biological clock.
According to the instructions, the massage starts with a clockwise movement of the head down to the neck, shoulders, arms and back. Then, massage yourself on your chest, down to your stomach, rest for at least 30 minutes and take a shower.
Sauna culture in Finland
Using a sauna for relaxation is deeply ingrained in the lifestyle of Finland – the happiest country in the world. It is even recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, honored in the songs and folklore beliefs of the people of this country.
About 90% of Finns take a sauna at a public bath at least once a week, according to the Finnish Heritage Agency. Sweating in high temperatures from a sauna improves blood pressure, increases endorphins, and reduces the incidence of cardiovascular disease and dementia, according to research in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
The ideal time to sit in the sauna is 5 to 20 minutes at a time, alternating with a cool swim, a regular bath or a break outside.
Temazcal Ritual in Mexico
The Temazcal ceremony is an ancient practice of the indigenous Mayan culture. Participants will take a sauna in a house made of mud or honeycomb, with hot lava rocks sprinkled with water and herbs inside. They meditate with drums and flutes and chant together to help release pent-up emotions. The Temazcal ritual aids in cleansing the body of unwanted toxins and impurities.
“The rituals are like those in church, but this is not religion,” said Marili Samayoa Monzon, a medical specialist who practices rituals at a clinic in Los Cabos, Mexico. The high temperature from the sauna forces people to think inward, evoking deep memories and emotions.
Norwegians immerse themselves in nature
Norwegians love to spend time immersed in nature in all kinds of weather. This concept is called friluftsliv, which means enjoying and connecting with nature. They can walk through deep snow or stroll through fields of wildflowers in spring. Spending time in nature can lower blood pressure and improve mental health. A 2019 meta-analysis found that these experiences boost morale, self-efficacy, and restore academic and cognitive performance.
“Connecting with nature can help people feel happy, positive, and find meaning in life,” said study author Professor Colin Capaldi, an epidemiologist at the Public Health Agency of Canada.
“Enjoy the feeling of doing nothing” in Italy
Italians seem to have perfected the art of living a balanced life, taking time every day to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. They can linger at outdoor cafes without plans, enjoying a leisurely meal with family and friends, soaking up the sunshine. Italians prioritize entertainment, trying to live each day to the fullest.