A delicate spider web with a small spider sits in front of a wooden fence, surrounded by green foliage and trees, with sunlight filtering through the leaves.

The delicate, silvery strand caught a splinter of light, momentarily shimmering and glistening in the early summer sun.  As the wind began to roil and swirl, the spider’s silk became untethered, taking flight upon the breeze.  An almost invisible moment became apparent.  A shared secret to keep.

Sunlight filters through tall, green trees in a quiet, open forest. Dappled light creates patches of brightness on the forest floor, and lush foliage fills the background.

What surely is no secret are the health benefits of green spaces, more specifically trees and woods/forests.  Recent studies have found that exposure to trees and woods/forests reduces depression and the reliance on medication, while reducing stress and anxiety and improving cognitive functioning.

Sunlight filters through dense green foliage and tall trees in a lush forest. The forest floor is covered with plants, leaves, and fallen branches. It is a peaceful, natural woodland scene.

Further still, some doctors and therapists are recommending more outdoor time whereby patients immerse themselves in nature by taking a trip into the woods/forest. This type of therapy is known as tree or forest bathing.

A dirt path winds through a lush, green forest with tall trees and dense undergrowth, illuminated by sunlight filtering through the leaves.

Tree or forest bathing is the act by which you immerse yourself in nature, by slowly walking through the woods while engaging all your senses.  This can lead to reduced stress, anxiety, depression, and anger while strengthening the immune system, improving cardiovascular and metabolic health, and overall wellbeing.

Two people walk down a paved trail surrounded by tall, lush green trees in a forest on a cloudy day.

And you need not walk far or go far.  Look to local parks, forest preserves or any green spaces.  Engage your senses, don’t rush, appreciate the silence, and try different activities, like reading a book, having a picnic, meditating, or simply jotting down your thoughts.

A clear, shallow stream flows through a lush, green forest. Dense trees with leafy branches hang over the water, creating a peaceful, natural scene.

Skip the sunbathing, and head out to the woods!  After all, your health and wellbeing are of upmost importance!  Reach out to Sweeney’s for additional tips or ideas on creating your own healthful, green spaces.   We proudly serve the communities of Villa Park, Elmhurst, Oakbrook, Oakbrook Terrace, Glen Ellyn, Lombard, Wood Dale, Itasca, and more!

Sweeney’s:  A Plant Based Company

Plant of the Week

A close-up of a tall purple flower spike with small blossoms, surrounded by green leaves and more flower spikes in the background.

Speedwell, Veronica ‘Eveline’

Spikes of lavender-purple flowers bloom amongst dense clumps of dark green foliage early Summer – late Summer.  Prefers sun to partial sun, and moist, well-drained soil.  Grows 18-24″ tall and 8-12″ wide.  Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.  Deer and rabbit resistant.

“Trees give peace to the souls of men.”

― Nora Waln

Best wishes,

Kim Sweeney