Many of our guests say that there is something magical about the forest on the Rodenecker-Lüsner Alm. And it's true: there is a feeling among the larch and spruce trees that is difficult to put into words. A tranquillity that envelops you and your soul. Your body breathes a sigh of relief, your mind becomes light.
The forest as therapist:
How nature heals at 1,832 metres
And no, you don't have to believe in forest spirits, energy fields or another world to feel it. Because what the forest does to you can be measured: in your blood, your pulse, your stress levels. Science knows exactly what our gut feeling has been whispering to us for a long time. We have researched what makes the forest so effective and how you can benefit from it:
Your immune system listens to the trees
Trees release fragrances into the forest air, known as phytoncides and terpenes. These are their natural defences against pests. When you inhale these substances, your body reacts. The number of natural killer cells in your blood increases by almost 40 per cent after just one day in the forest. This effect lasts for around a week. After two days among the trees, it can even last for up to a month. In Japan, forest bathing (known as Shinrin-Yoku) has been a recognised form of preventive healthcare since the 1980s. You don't have to travel to the Land of the Rising Sun to bathe in the forest. A break at the Naturhotel Runa is a much better idea: the conifers, such as our spruce and larch trees up here on the alpine pasture, release abundant terpenes. The air you breathe at 1,832 metres above sea level is more than pure. It is a kind of natural pharmacy.
Forest bathing. More than just walking
But what distinguishes forest bathing from a simple walk? It is above all your attitude, your inner mindset. Forest bathing is about being present and fully in the moment, activating all your senses and getting back in touch with your feelings: Feel how the tree bark comes to life under your fingers. Can you hear what the treetops are whispering to you? Here at Runa, we would be happy to take you on a guided forest tour. Mindful breathing exercises among the trees, conscious listening and conscious silence await you. You will experience it for yourself: the forest works.
When spring awakens the forest
Right now, as spring approaches, something special is happening in the forest. The trees are awakening, fresh spruce shoots are glowing bright green at the tips of the branches, delicate, soft and full of unbridled vitality. Speaking of spruce shoots: our chef Alex knows what to do with this gift from the forest. During our spruce shoot days, the young shoots come straight from the mountain to your plate and cup. Fresh, aromatic, surprising. Forest delights you can taste.
And for those seeking a combination of exercise, breathing and inner peace: our yoga weekend in the Alps combines gentle practice with the vastness and tranquillity of the mountains. Your yoga room is the forest, your blanket is the sky.
Mini forest bath for at home
Give it a try: go to the nearest park or forest in your area. Leave your mobile phone in your pocket. Walk slowly. Really slowly. Stop and close your eyes. Breathe deeply through your nose, right into your belly. Count five breaths and just listen. What do you hear when you really listen? The rustling of leaves? A bird? The wind? And then take a sniff: what do you smell? Earth, wood, something green? Touch the bark of a tree, feel the grooves under your fingertips. 20 minutes is enough. Research shows that even this short time noticeably reduces your stress levels.
Come and visit us soon at the Rodenecker-Lüsner Alm and take a deep breath among the larch and spruce trees and the silence. We look forward to seeing you! Would you like to find out more about what awaits you at the Alm? Take a look around our website. And maybe we'll see you soon among the trees.
