the secrets of forest yoga
We all know that a walk in the woods lifts our spirits, but did you know that there are powerful, invisible therapeutic agents at work??
Enter Phytoncides. These volatile organic compounds are the forest’s essential oils—an antimicrobial defense mechanism released by trees and plants. They are the fragrant molecules that give each forest its distinct, clean scent. While the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing) has championed the holistic benefits of nature immersion for decades, modern science, specifically through the study of phytoncides, is providing the measurable proof that this shit really works.
Hidden forest spot for a private yoga practice
What are Phytoncides, and Why Do They Matter?
Phytoncides, from the Greek words 'phyton' (plant) and 'cide' (to kill/exterminate), are natural antibiotics that trees use to protect themselves from insects, bacteria, and fungi. When we step into a healthy forest and inhale deeply, we are bathing in this chemistry, and our bodies respond with a cascade of profound, healing benefits.
The most exciting research centers on our immune systems. Inhaling phytoncides—such as alpha-pinene and limonene released by coniferous trees—leads to a significant increase in the count and activity of Natural Killer (NK) cells in the human body. NK cells are a type of white blood cell that plays a critical role in destroying tumor and virus-infected cells. Essentially, spending mindful time in the forest gives your immune system a scientifically verifiable, measurable boost that can last for days or even weeks after your visit.
A group yoga practice in the Forest Lounge, Squamish
The benefits don’t stop there. When we are stressed, our bodies release the hormone cortisol. Research consistently shows that spending time in forests significantly lowers levels of salivary cortisol, lowers blood pressure, and a decreases heart rate compared to those spending time in an urban setting. The calming air effectively reduces the activity of the sympathetic nervous system (our "fight or flight" response) while promoting the parasympathetic nervous system (our "rest and digest" mode).
This means the forest is not just calming; it is actively, chemically helping you to de-stress, rebalance your autonomic nervous system, and find true rest.
When you take your yoga practice out of a studio and plant your mat on the forest floor, you are exponentially amplifying its benefits.
In the forest you are drawing in prana enriched with stress-reducing, immune-boosting phytoncides. The simple act of a slow, deep Inhale is a full dose of nature’s medicine.
In the quiet, natural environment, the mind sheds its digital fatigue and is allowed to soften. The senses relax, the mental fog clears meditation occurs more easefully.
To conclude your price, lying still on the forest floor, absorbing the sounds of the wind, and the scent of the trees.
Our forest's invisible healing agents offer powerful support in out yoga and well-being practices. To practice yoga in the forest is to not only seek union with yourself but to surrender to the beautiful, scientifically proven healing intelligence of the Earth.
Nicki is Founder of Wild Vedas - a clinical Ayurvedic Practitioner, Yoga Teacher Trainer & Outdoor Educator. She has been guiding transformative journeys since 2011.
Growing up in Australia, her career has had her living in New Zealand, the UK, Bali and now Canada, as well has having guided numerous programs across Asia and South America. She has held space for thousands of journeys of self reflection, awareness and growth using nature and community as mirrors back to ourselves. Nicki's programs prioritise playfulness, community, authenticity, and a deep curiosity for self-discovery, connection with others, and exploration of the world around us.
