Embrace Nature: Hugging Trees in Iceland to Combat Loneliness

Iceland‘s forestry service is promoting a unique initiative encouraging residents to hug trees for five minutes a day. This practice, although unconventional, is based on research suggesting that connecting with nature can significantly enhance mental well-being.

One of the significant challenges during social distancing and self-isolation is the emotional toll of prolonged physical separation. As lockdowns persist, the absence of physical touch is keenly felt. This sentiment is particularly challenging for individuals quarantining alone. Consequently, Iceland’s response is to encourage its citizens to connect with nature through tree hugging.

Rangers from the forestry service recommend spending five minutes daily hugging a tree in one of Iceland’s stunning national parks. According to Þór Þorfinnsson, the forest manager for East Iceland, hugging a tree creates a grounding experience: “When you hug a tree, you feel it first in your toes and then up your legs and into your chest, and then up into your head. It’s such a wonderful feeling of relaxation, and then you’re ready for a new day and new challenges,” he stated in an interview with RÚV.

Research backs the idea that trees possess remarkable healing qualities. The Japanese tradition of forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, which became part of Japan’s national health program in 1982, illustrates this concept effectively. This practice advocates immersing oneself in nature and has gained recognition from healthcare professionals worldwide as a natural remedy to alleviate stress and enhance overall health. One theory explains that phytoncides, the natural chemicals released by trees, may have a direct physiological effect on reducing stress levels.

The Icelandic forestry service has published various visual guides on its website to support this initiative by demonstrating different styles of tree hugging. Moreover, they have cleared snow-covered paths at Hallormsstaður in East Iceland to ensure easier access to the trees, while also modifying trails to facilitate adherence to the two-meter social distancing guideline.

“Why not come and enjoy the forest, where you can hug the trees and rejuvenate your spirit?” suggests Bergrun Arna Thorsteinsdottir, a senior ranger at Hallormsstaður National Forest, in an interview with RÚV.