As a child, when I felt down, I used to run along the winding path of the nearby forest to the high cliff where we had built a hut of twigs. Sitting on that mossy mound, my mind would clear, and worries would fade away. The forest brought comfort.
Looking back, it’s interesting to note that I instinctively sought solace in nature, even though I didn’t yet know about its well-being effects. Nowadays, we have ample evidence on how being in nature promotes stress recovery, uplifts mood, and encourages physical activity.
Lahti’s health forest highlights the well-being effects of nature
It has been inspiring to be involved in developing Lahti’s health forest, which aims to highlight these well-being effects of nature. Visitors to the health forest often come with an open mind, consciously taking their time to enjoy the benefits of nature. The sensory exercises conducted in the health forest have been a novel experience for many, helping them focus on the moment. When one becomes aware of the health and well-being benefits of the forest, they are inclined to seek its solace more often.
To enjoy the healing power of nature in everyday life, we need nearby forests. With two young children, having nature close to home is a relief. One quickly notices the tangible, beneficial effects of nature when with children in the forest. A toddler throwing tantrums indoors transforms into a cheerful explorer upon entering the forest. The forest environment inspires children to build, invent imaginative games, and balance on tree trunks. Meanwhile, their spirits lift, and motor skills develop.
Families are encouraged to go on forest outings
It’s heartening to see the well-being effects of nature being emphasized in early childhood education. Forest pedagogy is implemented in daycare centers, and families are encouraged to go on forest outings. Images of children sleeping in hammocks in the daycare’s nearby forest have warmed my heart. Hopefully, these experiences will inspire more daycare centers to incorporate forest outings into their activities. For regular forest visits to be feasible in daycare, the forest must be within walking distance for the children.
Nature and nearby forests play a crucial role in promoting our well-being throughout life. Just as young children are taught outdoor skills in daycare, it’s essential for nature visits to continue into school age. We are currently preparing a learning package, “Well-being from Local Nature,” in collaboration with Nature School Kaisla. It encourages teaching in the school’s nearby forest and increases children’s knowledge of the well-being effects of nature. Building a strong connection with nature in childhood and adolescence promotes well-being well into adulthood.
Easily accessible nature in everyday life
Many wonder how a health forest differs from their own nearby forest in terms of well-being effects. Studies have identified certain features that enhance the rejuvenating effect of forests, such as biodiversity and old, large trees. However, one of the most crucial factors is accessibility. From the perspective of well-being effects, it’s essential to be able to access nature easily and regularly. The nearby forest of my childhood and the moments spent in the twig hut undoubtedly contributed to my well-being, providing me with valuable microbial exposure. Our current nearby forest, where we can quickly escape with the children after a day’s work, is our important health forest right now.
The text has been translated with the assistance of ChatGPT artificial intelligence.
Watch the video presentation about Lahti’s health forest