Forest-bathing and physical activity as weapons against COVID-19: a review

Abstract

Strengthening the immune system in order to better withstand the threat of COVID-19 is an important way to ensure the protection of our health against the current pandemic associated with SARS-CoV-2. There are many ways to achieve this, but with current circumstances, certain modalities stand out as being the most valid and are certainly worth greater consideration. Here we review the effects that particular immuno-strengthening activities can have on limiting the severity of COVID-19 disease as well as preventing virus infection. Physical activity, in particular, should not be discounted as an important method of prevention of viral diseases as it triggers many biological processes within the human body which in turn lead to heightened natural defences against viral infections. When exercise is performed in forested areas, these protective health benefits may be increased since many plant species emit biogenic volatile compounds (VOCs) which, when inhaled, have many protective properties. These VOCs have been shown in particular to have immunostimulatory effects on the human body and, thus, they could be of use in the prevention and/or treatment of COVID-19. Being amongst trees may also help to alleviate stress and anxiety, lowering cortisol levels and consequently helping the proper functioning of the immune system. In the following work, we have performed an analysis of the available scientific literature which looks at the effects of physical exercise as well as ‘forest-bathing’ on the immune system’s ability to fight disease, especially of course as it relates to COVID-19. Our review aims at shedding light on the benefits of exercising outdoors in green areas and suggests reforestation as a protective measure against future outbreaks.

Knowledge and Lifestyle Behaviors Related to COVID-19 Pandemic in People over 65 Years Old from Southern Italy

“…This is particularly important, especially when considering the role of PA as an immune function adjuvant to reduce the risk of communicable diseases [19]. As a matter of fact, scientific evidence has reported a dose-response relationship between PA performed before infection and a reduction in the incidence, duration, or severity of acute respiratory tract infections [38,39].…”

Forest Recreational Services in the Face of COVID-19 Pandemic Stress

“…In conclusion, sport performed in green spaces bolsters the body's ability to fight off COVID-19 and other infectious diseases through the combined benefits of physical exercise and the immunostimulatory effect. With more and more evidence of the protective and purifying qualities of trees and forested areas, it is critical that efforts be made to protect current forests and increase green spaces if we are to succeed in ending the current pandemic and prevent more such devastating illnesses from making an appearance in the future [76].…”

Social Distancing, Physical Activity, and COVID-19: Implications for Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Brazil

“…Since longer training programs (>12 weeks) with higher frequencies (>3 sessions/week) and longer durations (>60 min/session) have been shown to be more efficient in improving glycemic control, the reduction in these elements due to social distancing makes it difficult for this population to adopt an active lifestyle [ 40 ]. Physical activity should be considered as an important method of prevention of viral diseases, and when exercise is performed in forested areas, these protective health benefits may be increased, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety, lowering cortisol levels, and, consequently, helping the proper functioning of the immune system [ 41 ].…”