Breathing is something we do automatically, yet the quality of the air we breathe has a profound impact on our health, mood, and overall well-being. Forest environments offer a unique natural therapy known as forest breathing — the simple act of inhaling clean, oxygen-rich air infused with phytoncides, the natural antimicrobial compounds released by trees. These invisible particles help reduce inflammation, support the immune system, and promote a deep sense of calm.

Unlike urban air, which is often heavy with pollutants, forest air is cleaner, lighter, and enriched with the natural aromas of pine, moss, and leaves. This purity allows the lungs to expand more freely and work more efficiently. As a result, spending even 20–30 minutes in a forest can lower stress levels, stabilize the nervous system, and improve mental clarity. Nature becomes a natural lung “reset,” helping the body breathe the way it was meant to.

Running in the Forest: A Double Boost for Your Lungs

If breathing in the forest is beneficial, running in the forest multiplies these benefits exponentially. Jogging or trail running among the trees encourages deeper, more rhythmic breathing, which increases lung capacity and improves oxygen exchange. Forest terrain — soft soil, uneven paths, slight elevations — also prompts the body to work naturally without the harsh impact of concrete, easing the strain on joints and reducing fatigue.

When you run in a forest, your respiratory system experiences a cleaner environment with more oxygen and fewer irritants. For people who feel breathless or stressed from city running, forest running often feels smoother and more energizing. It helps train your lungs to function better, strengthens the diaphragm, and supports long-term respiratory health.

At the same time, the calming effect of nature reduces cortisol levels, making the run feel less like a workout and more like a moving meditation. Your breathing deepens, your heart rate stabilizes, and your mind becomes clearer — all thanks to the synergy of movement and clean forest air.

Why Forest Breathing Should Be Part of Your Routine

Whether you choose to walk, sit quietly, or go for a run, spending time in the forest is one of the most accessible and effective ways to support healthy breathing. Clean air, natural aromas, and gentle movement create the perfect environment for lung rejuvenation. Incorporating even short forest visits into your weekly routine can boost your immunity, reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance overall fitness.

Simply put: breathe deeply, move freely, and let the forest take care of the rest.

Article source: https://sakramento.ua/novyny/rankova-probizhka-u-lisi-ta-yiyi-koryst-dlya-zdorovya/