2 minute read
Forest Bathing” Can Improve Health
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By Bill LaMarche, CIS Member Relations Manager
In Japan, researchers have discovered that when people spend time in the forest, they can receive several health benefits. It’s known as “forest bathing.” But it’s not bathing in a literal sense, it’s more about getting outdoors and into the natural world. Over the past year, pandemic-living has led many to feel much more stressed and anxious. The isolation of social distancing has had an impact on people’s psyche. Because of this, it’s more important than ever to spend time outdoors. Whether it’s a walk during the lunch hour or going to a nature park after work, taking the time to get outside should be a priority. A pre-pandemic story on NPR highlighted some of the health benefits of taking a walk on a forest trail or sitting by a river. The story highlighted that being outdoors can lower a person’s heart rate, blood pressure and anxiety levels. In one Japanese study, the health benefits of taking a walk in nature was compared to a city walk. While both activities were good for overall health, researchers discovered that being in a more natural place had additional health benefits. Besides lower blood pressure and a reduction in stress hormones, the study participants described themselves as feeling less tired and less anxious. There was even an increase in cancer-fighting cells in their bodies. So, whether you enjoy a walk along the ocean or a forest trail, try to get out to experience the sights, sounds and smells of nature. The Japanese have it right, forest bathing is a great prescription to help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety caused by this terrible pandemic.
CIS Benefits BeyondWell Program Offers $150 Rewards
Many cities in Oregon get their employee health benefits through CIS Benefits. In 2021, employees and their spouses who have a CIS Benefits health plan (Regence or Kaiser) can earn up to $150 in Amazon.com rewards for participating in CIS’ BeyondWell wellness program. BeyondWell combines wellness activities, goal setting, rewards and more into one place. The result is a personalized well-being experience, tailored to each person’s unique needs. Now’s the time to get started by following these three easy steps: 1. Go to cisbenefits.org 2. Scroll down to the programs listed and select
BeyondWell for either Regence or Kaiser 3. For new user, accept the Terms of Use and create a username and password. This allows participants to take advantage of the BeyondWell mobile app! The best way to get started with BeyondWell is to complete the Health Assessment. The Health Assessment takes 15 minutes to complete and personalizes a wellbeing plan in the Journey section. Once completed, participants will earn $25! Now’s the time to get outdoors and start earning rewards for good health!
