Dealing with stress in 3 uniquely Japanese ways

Stress is something we all deal with in our lives - it's probably a significant part of what makes us human. In fact, a certain level of stress is actually said to be beneficial. The term is called eustress, with the prefix coming from the Greek word "eu" (meaning good). It's the bad stress we don't want around, and 2020 has definitely packed a bit of that in already.

If you're also feeling a bit stressed out, there are a myriad of ways to manage it - including some ways that are distinctly Japanese.

Onsen

A relaxing soak for many is the ultimate way to de-stress and find calm. Pic Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Japan has a long history of appreciating onsen for the numerous health benefits they provide. Some hot springs in Japan are said to be specifically for beauty-related concerns (such as youthfulness or repairing skin), but many others are said to have stress relieving properties. I think most of us probably feel greatly relaxed after we've had some time to just soak and chill out, so this may not come as a surprise. My personal favorite onsens I've visited have been at Shiosai No Yado Seikai in Beppu, and Konansou in Fujikawaguchiko, both of which had private balcony onsen.

Green Tea

A matcha a day keeps the doctor away... Pic Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Aside from just tasting good, green tea has a whole host of health benefits. I find that the simple act of brewing a cup of tea already has my stress levels dropping, but science backs it up. There are certain chemical compounds in tea, that when consumed see specific markers of stress decrease. Green tea is also said to assist with improving high blood pressure, something that is often correlated with high-stress situations.

Nature Therapy/Forest Bathing

Forest bathing: good for the body, mind, and spirit

A concept that has gained quite a bit of traction globally in recent years is shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing. Being outdoors in nature has numerous benefits - fresh air, a chance to move your body, and lots of stress reducing properties. It's not just pseudoscience either - there have been various studies completed focusing on how grounding ourselves in nature re-connects us to the earth's electrons, which can help with our sleep patterns and even reduce pain. Good sleep is one of the biggest factors in reducing stress, so try and connect with nature and see how you feel.