I am a firm believer in the natural healing powers of mother nature.

Maine has a vast selection of beautiful forests everywhere. I bet you aren't far from a forest right now. You're probably looking at a forest of trees right now.

Alright, so imagine this: You're not taking a dip in a bathtub, you're not even in a spa, but you're bathing in a forest!

Yep, that's right, forest bathing! It's not about lathering up with soap and shampoo among the trees (although that would be quite a sight). It's about immersing yourself in nature and soaking up all the good vibes the forest has to offer.

I'd like to add that I am not making this up, it's science.

According to Forbes, extensive research on the health benefits of spending time outdoors has been done by Dr. Yoshifumi Miyazaki at Chiba University in Japan, as well as researchers in South Korea.

Picture yourself walking through the lush Maine woods, feeling the leaves crunch beneath your feet, the fresh air filling your lungs, and the birds chirping so beautifully, serenading your ears.

It's like Mother Nature's version of a bubble bath, except instead of bubbles, you're surrounded by trees!

And I dare you to hug one. You know what they say, trees are alive and have the most amazing energy. So consume it. Consume some tree energy today, why don't you?

That's science as well. Get this, according to Silvo Therapy, hugging trees can elevate oxytocin levels, the so-called "love hormone."

So next time you're feeling stressed or just in need of a little pick-me-up, forget the bathtub and head straight for the nearest Maine forest to bath and hug a tree. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you for it.

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