Read the following passage carefully and compose a “Topic Outline” for it.
Why You Need to Try “Forest Bathing”?
On hearing the term, you might assume “forest bathing” means splashing in a spring among woods. That sounds enjoyable but it’s not correct: Forest bathing basically consists of hanging out in the woods and reaping its health benefits. The term was coined in Japan in the early 1980s, highlighting nationwide close-to-nature pastime. The practice soon prevailed in the U.S. as well; now resorts and nature parks across the country offer forest bathing walks that focus on soaking in the sights and sounds of nature. Indeed, forest bathing gains popularity as nature nourishes both mind and body.
Forest bathing leaves people less stressed. Researchers at Duke University compared nearly 300 college students after they took walks in a city and after they walked in forest. The students had lower concentrations of the stress hormone cortisol(皮质醇), lower pulse rates and lower blood pressure after they took forest baths than on days when they’d walked in the city. Similarly, in a larger study at Kyoto University, participants scored lower on ratings for hostility and depression after spending time in the woods compared to when they roamed an urban setting.
Forest bathing, apart from its soothing effect on the mind, may also help ward off illnesses. Additional research from Edinburgh Medical School found that immune-boosting human "natural killer" cells, which better protect us against viruses and cancers, showed higher activity levels after participants went forest bathing. The cells continued to function at a higher level for more than week after the experience. Some experts believe forest bathing's health profits come from inhaling the chemicals plants emit. Others aren't so sure of the cause, saying perhaps increased feelings of awe are why forest bathers enjoy improved health.
Other than health-boosting effects on both mind and body, forest bathing offers added bonuses. U.S.-based research showed nature walks cleared the head more than city strolls. One European study found that simply living in a tree-filled neighborhood improved focus, promoted creativity, increased efficiency and productivity. In short, you feel more alive.
You won't believe how easy forest bathing is. Japan has designated "forest therapy." walking paths in forests across the nation. However, designated walking paths are not mandatory. The U.S. has no such system, though you can become a certified forest therapy guide and lead outdoor adventures.
Training isn't necessary: Simply find a spot with trees, and take a two-hour walk while enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature without rushing. Breathe deeply, sit occasionally, and touch the trees around you.
Before long, you'll find yourself with a greater love for nature and a healthier body Chances are that in thirty years, as an expert predicts, forest bathing will be as much a cultural norm as yoga is in present-day society.I. INTRODUCTION (PARAGRAPH 1)
A. DEFINITION AND POPULARITY OF FOREST BATHING
B. THESIS: FOREST BATHING GAINS POPULARITY AS NATURE NOURISHES BOTH MIND AND BODY.
II. IMPROVED WELL-BEING AS A RESULT OF FOREST BATHING (PARAGRAPHS 2-4)
A. ALLEVIATION OF MENTAL PRESSURE/PRESSURE ALLEVIATION
B. PREVENTION OF PHYSICAL PROBLEMS/ILLNESS PREVENTION
C. ADDITIONAL GAINS
III. EASY ENGAGEMENT IN FOREST BATHING (PARAGRAPHS 5-6)
A. NO NEED FOR PARTICULAR WALKING PATHS
B. NO NEED FOR SPECIAL TRAINING
IV. CONCLUSION: FOREST BATHING—A GROWING TREND (PARAGRAPH 7)
