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«The power of Moutain air bathing»

What is mountain air bathing? Mountain air bathing is much more than just a walk at high altitude. Mountain air bathing is about consciously staying and breathing in the special atmosphere of the mountains. It is a holistic experience of nature that appeals to body and soul in equal measure.

It is a concept that is based on the practice of «forest bathing» (Japanese: Shinrin-yoku). It is not a bath in water, but a conscious, sensual and mindful experience in nature, especially in the mountains. The aim is to fully immerse yourself in the fresh, clean mountain air, breathe deeply and perceive your surroundings with all your senses. The aim is to reduce stress, strengthen the immune system and regenerate body and mind.

The practice of mountain air bathing can include the following elements:

  • Slow, mindful walking or lingering in the mountain landscape, without pressure to perform or sporting ambitions.
  • Conscious breathing of the clear, often oxygen-rich and low-pollen mountain air, which is considered particularly healthy.
  • Sensory perception: smelling the plants, feeling the wind, listening to the sounds of nature.
  • Slowing down and consciously experiencing the moment, often combined with digital time-out (unplugging).

Sometimes “mountain air bathing” is also combined with a dip in a mountain lake or stream, but this is not necessarily part of the concept.

What effects can «Mountain air bathing» have on you?

  • Stress reduction and relaxation: The clear, pure mountain air has been proven to promote well-being, reduce stress and help relieve anxiety. Studies and experts such as lung specialist Beat Villiger confirm that spending time in mountain regions has a calming effect on the nervous system and increases general well-being.
  • Strengthening the immune system: The special composition of mountain air – often enriched with essential oils from conifers (phytoncides) – supports the immune system and can strengthen the body’s defenses.
  • Better breathing: The fresh, clean air in the mountains is free of pollutants and allergens, which is particularly beneficial for people with respiratory diseases or allergies. Conscious breathing at altitude can improve lung function and increase breathing volume.
  • Mental regeneration: The peace and quiet of the mountains, combined with the special air, promote mindfulness, mental clarity and the feeling of “recharging the batteries ”.
  • Physiological benefits: Spending time at altitude can stimulate circulation, improve oxygen uptake and contribute to better blood flow.

To summarize: Mountain air bathing has a relaxing effect, strengthens the immune system, improves breathing and promotes both physical and mental health.

Have you ever heard of the outdoor coaching “Walk Talk” on Mount Rigi, the Queen of the Mountains?

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Great mountain feeling

«Sitting up here and looking out over the beautiful valley and the turquoise lakes of Silvaplana always fills me with deep joy, gratitude and a powerful feeling.»

Mental Moutain air bathing:
Short visualization exercise – Dive into the world of mountain

Mental Moutain air bathing: Sit down comfortably, close your eyes and immerse yourself in the world of the mountains. Try to imagine the following:

You are walking along a nature trail early in the morning, surrounded by the scent of damp earth and resinous-smelling conifers. The air is cool and clear, every breath you take feels like a breath of fresh air for body and soul. With every step you take, you feel the stress of everyday life fall away – your thoughts become calmer, your heart beats in harmony with nature.

The wind gently caresses your face while the sun’s rays dance through the treetops and bathe the landscape in golden light. The mountains rise majestically into the sky, giving you a sense of space and freedom. Birdsong and the gentle murmur of a stream accompany you as you feel more and more connected to your surroundings.

You stop, take a deep breath and feel how the pure mountain air fills your lungs and provides you with new energy. The worries of everyday life recede into the distance, replaced by a feeling of inner peace and contentment. Every moment in this natural environment is soothing – you feel alive, invigorated and deeply refreshed.

Would you like to find out how you can add more activity, energy, lightness and joy to your life?

Together we will find out what really works for you. We will develop individual strategies that will strengthen you in the long term and help you to achieve your goals with enthusiasm. I look forward to hearing from you and getting to know you.

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Scientific studies prove – the mountain feeling has positive effects on mental health

There are several scientific studies that have investigated the mountain feeling and its effects on mental health. Here are some relevant results: A study by the Max Planck Institute for Human Development shows that even a one-hour walk in nature significantly reduces activity in brain regions involved in stress processing. The research shows that the amygdala, a central region for stress processing, is less active after a walk in nature. This suggests that spending time in natural environments such as the mountains can have positive effects on mental health.

A comprehensive study on the effects of recreational zones shows that green spaces in urban areas have positive effects on various aspects of psychosocial health. These include reduced stress levels, improved emotions and increased ability to concentrate. The studies show that spending time in nature not only reduces stress, but can also promote emotional well-being.
The calming atmosphere of the mountains helps to distract you from stressful thoughts and promotes a feeling of inner peace. Walks or hikes in nature can increase positive emotions and reduce negative feelings such as anger.
Physical activity in the mountains leads to the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of happiness and motivation. These substances promote a feeling of well-being and can alleviate depressive moods.

Overall, it is clear that the mountain feeling has a positive effect on our mental health through the combination of experiencing nature, physical activity and social interaction. It not only promotes well-being, but can also serve as a preventative measure against mental illness.
In addition, studies show that walks in nature can reduce negative emotions such as anger, while they tend to increase in urban environments. These findings underline the importance of natural environments for emotional well-being and stress management.

Sitting by Lake Silvaplana with a view of the turquoise-blue mountain lake water with lightly snow-capped mountains and green fir forest in the background, reflected in the mountain lake. The sky is blue and dotted with a few white clouds. A picture full of natural beauty.

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