Are you wondering why you should celebrate World Forest Day 2024? Then this blog is for you. Did you know after Oceans, forests are the large storehouses for carbon? Forests are the main hubs for maintaining the natural ecosystem of nature. Forests are the only home for 80% of living organisms. Any disturbances in it is obvious that imbalances in nature will keep occurring.

   Some of this information you must have heard during your school days or later in life. But today in this blog, I will cover some unique and mind-blowing benefits of Forests to Humans. They are based on my personal experiences and recent science-backed discoveries. Before that let’s take a minute to ponder in to Why is International Forest Day celebrated? Why forests are so important to Humans? And how to Stop Deforestation?

What is World Forest Day?

        World Forest Day is a reminder to acknowledge the abundance provided by the Universe for the well-being of all creatures and ecosystems. UN declared 21st March as World Forest Day in the year 2012 to create awareness of and importance of forests for the entire planet. The forests are not just a home for wild animals and other species, it is a source of rich resources. It helps to maintain the temperature of our planet, absorbs pollution, and provides us with pure oxygen.

Why forests are important for human beings?

    Amazon forest is a vast area that covers approximately 5.5 million square kilometers. They say that Amazon forests are the “ Lungs of the Earth”. As per the cited figure, it is said that approximately 20% of oxygen is produced by Amazon. Yet, these figures are being claimed to be outdated data and not the present one.

     No doubt Oceans are the biggest contributors of oxygen on Earth. Half of the earth’s oxygen is generated from marine organisms and photosynthesis. But, the Amazon forest remains a major part of the global ecosystem. It helps in regulating the global climate. Strom water carries toxic chemicals like lawn fertilizers, pig manure, etc.

     The forest acts like giant sponges to catch the largest of the runoff water. Forests are a major source of employment for millions of people across the globe. Around 25% of medicines come from forests. The latest researches talk about its immense benefits to human mental wellbeing.

     Man activity and the growing population have infringed on forest spaces, reducing them to 40%. This is a threatening percentage. Today’s generation must know the significance of forests for all the life cycles on the earth. Excessive urbanization and a lot of interference from human activity in forests have disturbed the natural resources.

How to Stop Deforestation?

    Over the years Rapid Urbanization due to the increasing World population has resulted in Deforestation. This has disturbed the ecosystem of the Forest. There is a dire need to put in place strong policies and regulations to protect the remaining forests. Raising public awareness and promoting responsible consumer behavior will support reforestation initiatives. Reforestation is one of the promising solutions to revive the ecosystem of forests.

    One of the simplest ways would be to embrace sustainable living by reducing the carbon footprint. Also by building deep relations with nature, by planning recreational outdoor activities and Green therapies.

    This would invoke a sense of responsibility and care for nature. The entire laws of nature work on harmony and balance of the entire ecosystem. We have to strive towards maintaining this balance, by not letting human activity disturb the ecosystem of other living beings.

 8 Unique reasons why you should celebrate World Forest Day 

   We have heard of various environmental benefits forests offer to maintain the balance on earth. But did you know forests can reap countless benefits for human mental health and well-being too? It is a powerhouse to restore and rejuvenate. There is a deep connection between Humans and Nature.

1. Spiritual Abundance 

    Sadhguru rightly says that forests are “Nature’s temple”. By simply sitting in the womb of nature you will feel like the whole space is consecrated. It changes the way you feel. I love calling Deep Forest the Spiritual Abundance. This magical heaven on earth has immense power to heal your soul.

    We share an intriguing and mysterious connection with the forest that is unexplainable, yet we know the reasons. This mesmerizing wonderland with whimsical creatures reminds you of the wonders of nature and the creator. They fill your soul with gratitude and wonder for the creator. As temples act as sources to recharge you spiritually the second best source to recharge is forests.

2. Color Psychology

    The term “Biophilia” was proposed by Edward O. Wilson in his book “Biophilia”. It emphasizes humans, innate and genetic connection with Nature and living things. The evidence suggests the rich diversity of color, shapes, and life in nature invokes a biophilic response. Many  Researchers have shown exposure to any green spaces, whether lush green gardens, forests, or meadows, has a profound calming effect on mental well-being. Green colors are often associated with harmony, peace, and contentment. These soothing qualities of green color can comfort one’s senses and well-being in any turbulent situation.

3. Forest helps fight climate change 

  We all have seen massive consequences caused by Climate Change across the world in the past few years. One of the primary and effortless solutions we can work towards controlling the existing climate change globally is by preserving our forests and encouraging reforestation.

   The greenhouse effect is one of the major reasons behind climate change. Carbon dioxide is one of the gases that stimulates the greenhouse effect. Through the photosynthesis process, the forest helps balance the greenhouse effect. This helps in climate regulation in the nearby areas and surroundings.

    4. Forests are the natural medicinal hub

      For centuries traditional cultures have been familiar with the healing medicinal properties of trees in forests. To date still, many indigenous communities across the globe rely on the local medicinal plants for health needs. According to WHO, 25% of modern medicines are derived directly or indirectly from medicinal plants. More than half of the life-saving medicines come from forests.

      Over the years human-caused biodiversity losses have affected the growth of medicinal plants. Medicinal plants are extensively used in India. India’s age-old healing practice of Ayurveda depends 90% on Plant-based preparations for healing. The managing director of “Arya Vaidya Pharmacy” Dr. P. R. KrishnaKumar highlights the importance of Forests and says, that the majority of medicinal plants, herbs, and trees are found only inside forests.

5. Forest nurtures the soil 

      The extensive biodiversity of the forest like trees, mammals, birds, insects, etc plays a crucial role in enriching soil quality. Each living creature plays a unique role in the ecosystem. As Sadhguru says while spreading the awareness of Save Soil., “Soil is a significant Carbon sink, Soil is the basis of all life. 87% of the Bio-diversity depends on soil”. Forests help the soil to stay in place.

      The leaves catch the rainfall and ensure that the remaining soil doesn’t wash away. The leaves of the trees act as shelter against harsh sunlight so the soil doesn’t dry out. The nutrients that we get from vegetables depend on the quality of the soil. Hence, it is the need of the hour to find ways to save the soil’s quality for coming generations.

 6. Forests boost our immune system 

    According to recent research, spending time in the forest helps you boost your Immune system. Because when we breathe the fresh air of the forest, we also breathe in Phytoncides an airborne chemical released by the plants to protect them from insects.

     These chemicals have natural antibacterial and anti-fungal qualities. Inhaling this chemical encourages Natural killer (NK) cell activity in humans. These NK cells are a type of white blood cells that support our immune system and help us fight infection and inflammation.

       A single matured tree can produce a daily oxygen supply for 2 to 10 people. Trees are natural carbon absorbers. They use carbon dioxide to build their branches, roots, trunks, and roots. This process helps to clean the air in the surroundings. A 2-hour walk in the forest can encourage NK cell activity that may last for many days.

 7. Mycorrhizal Network: Connections beneath your feet 

    The Mycorrhizal Network is an underground network of tiny threads of greater fungal organisms that wrap around tree roots. They connect individual plants to transfer water, carbon, nitrogen, and other minerals. This network plays a crucial role in supplying life-giving nutrients to keep the forest healthy. This vast underground Mycorrhizal network acts as a distribution channel, by transporting nutrients to the areas of need.

    Isn’t it fascinating to know the power of this tiny microscopic network of fungus? They add so much health and vitality to the forest by supporting vast no of trees that come under the underground network. Forests are an important ecosystem for humans no doubt. These tiny threads of intelligent fungi are crucial to keep the entire forest healthy and nutritious.

       8. Enhances mental wellbeing 

             Post Covid the first thing I was craving was to go deep into the wilderness. I was feeling lost and unfulfilled as if I was searching for something to fill the void in me. Nature starvation had increased my stress levels and deprived my soul of energy.

      I had realized the healing properties of Nature back in 2012 when I was going through Depression. Many researchers recently have discovered that forest environments have proven to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost the immune system.

  Forest Bathing or “Shinrin-yoku an ancient Japanese practice has recently gained increasing popularity. They are known for restoring and rejuvenating overall well-being. One of the key principles of this practice is mindful walking. It’s done by experiencing nature with all the senses and expressing gratitude and respect for nature. These sensory experiences lift our spirits and bring a sense of joy and completeness.

8 interesting activities you can do on World International Day 2024

   We inherently care for people whom we love. Similarly, to connect with nature is all about falling in love with it first by building a beautiful relationship. And then care and preservation will naturally follow. Below are some fun and interesting activities that will enrich your relationship with your extended family “ The Nature”

1. Hug a tree

Quantum physics has constantly proved that everything in this universe is a living energy field. The energy that flows through us also flows through all other living creatures including plants and trees. When we Hug a tree we exchange the energetic vibration. Hugging a tree awakens your senses. Expressing your gratitude towards trees will instill a sense of interconnectedness, as you match with the energy field of trees.

2. Be a part of a tree-planting campaign

You can be a part of any tree-planting campaign within your community. Or simply plant a tree in your garden to keep the surroundings green and breathable. This gives an unexplainable sense of satisfaction when you plant a sapling with your own hands and watch the plant grow and flourish.

3. Go for a wildlife safari

    Forests are home to millions of creatures and microorganisms. Watching them closely would take you to another world of wonder and allow you to enjoy the forest experience to the fullest. Visiting the untamed wildlife instills a sense of empathy, respect, and understanding for all other creatures. This raw wildlife experience will change the way you look at the world.

4. Go Birds watching 

   This is one of my favourite activities which I occasionally engross in. Birds are the most accessible and vibrant wonders of nature. Their mesmerizing cuteness, beauty, and melodious chirping make me call them spiritual charmers. They open the door to my spirit whenever I indulge in them. If you are a bird lover you would find them as a way to connect with Nature.

5. Go camping 

   Camping is another beautiful way to connect with nature. Living in the lap of nature gives you the necessary sense of groundedness. It gives you a reason to detach from worldly life. It exposes you to the pleasures of living a raw minimalist life in nature under the moonlight. It makes you accessible to life’s simplest pleasures that nature has to offer.

6. Indulge in forest therapy 

 Forest Therapy is a widely popular ancient Japanese practice that emphasizes soaking up in the mindful walking experience through your senses. This therapy will help you bond with nature and uplift your spirit with deep joy and a new sense of discovery.

7. Spend time in a Garden/Park  

  How many times in your daily life have you acknowledged the presence of a blooming flower in your garden? When was the last time you noticed a colorful butterfly? Simply acknowledging the presence of nature around you will help you create a bond with your surroundings.

      The entire universe is interconnected. Yet our superior self never acknowledges the presence of tiny natural beauties that we often see in our daily lives like a honey bee, a ladybug, or a dragonfly, touching that touch me not.

8. Visit the Butterfly Garden

     My very first trip to the butterfly garden was mind-blowing. I was stunned to see varied colorful butterflies that I didn’t know existed. It felt like walking into a magical island of flying tiny fairies in wonderland. For the very first time, I was able to watch the life process of butterflies.

     The life process of butterflies is often used as a metaphor to describe human life. There is so much to learn from these tiny beauties. The butterfly garden is something you should visit at least once in your lifetime.

    Throughout history, ancient Indian culture, traditional practices, rituals, art, and sculptures have expressed deep respect for the environment. Ancient Literature such as Arthashastra, Upanishads, Vedas, and Bhagwat Gita have emphasized the importance of the environment and its preservation.

     The generational gap, increasing population, and Urbanization have drastically reduced global forest terrain. We have already experienced the consequences in the form of climate change, virus, etc

     It’s our responsibility as the most intelligent species to instill a sense of wonder, respect, and fairness of rights to all living creatures in the world. Even the tiniest creature like an ant has a major role to play in the ecosystem and balance of the planet.

    This is only possible through collective action and involving the community as a whole in nurturing and protecting our precious natural resources.

    While writing this blog on the forest triggered my COVID-19 memories when I was badly missing being in nature. Below is a poem I wrote during lockdown days to express my concern for Mother Earth.

Dear Mother Nature, Forgive us all 

Yes, there is uncertainty in the air, a panic-like scare,

An invisible monster is whirling in the air, for its next prey, Don’t know where?

Yes, it’s chasing us all, For we are to blame,

For causing a man-made disturbance environmentally everywhere.

It is time to realize that we didn’t care,

If we had, it wouldn’t be there.

Now that we realize we are only humans,

And have no right to interfere…

Let us pray for forgiveness 

And plant the seed of love and respect for Mother Nature 

Once and for all.

For all that is gone will never come,

But all that is left is in our hand 

Don’t worry, It is not too late.

Though outrage of nature is the scariest of all.

Our willpower & prayers are only our strongest shield to protect us all.

No one can influence our will until we give up.

So hang in there, no matter what,

We have learned our global lesson,

And she will forgive us all,

Through her divine grace,

Which we will soon trace…..

• • • – Gauri Bellad