The Immune System and Emotional Health

“Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher.”
- William Wordsworth

Stress and depression are not separate from the immune system.

Chronic stress increases inflammation in the body. Research shows that elevated inflammatory markers are often present in individuals with major depressive disorder.

Studies from Japan on “forest bathing” (Shinrin-yoku) have shown that spending time in forest environments can increase natural killer (NK) cell activity. NK cells help the body fight infection and decrease stress hormones.

Participants in some studies maintained elevated immune function for days after exposure.

What does this have to do with mood?

When the body feels safer, the mind follows.

When inflammation lowers, clarity often improves.

The separation we make between “mental” and “physical” health is not as clean as we once thought.

The body responds to the environment. And that response ripples into emotion.

Journal Prompts

If you are so inclined ... writing about your emotions and needs has been proven to be beneficial in helping to gain peace and alleviate stress. There’s no right way to answer.

How does my body feel after extended time indoors versus outdoors?

What signals tell me my body is overwhelmed, even if my mind hasn’t admitted it yet?

Videos & Books

If quiet moments might help you reset, or if you are unable to get to a natural setting, here are some YouTube channels focused on nature, including my own, The Nature Break. Also included are some books on the benefits and beauty of nature.

YouTube Nature Channels:

• Relaxation Film: Long-format videos with aerial and ground level fotage. Natural sounds.

• The Nature Break: Nature walks set to quiet music, short duration 2- 4 minutes

Books:

• Grandma Gatewood’s Walk by Ben Montgomery

• The Journal of John Muir by John Muir

Featured Video: Please enjoy this video from the Nature Break…

Comments

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The Nature Break

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