We reveal the secret of the healing air of our Plitvice Lakes region
Article from the archive. Dates and seasonal offers in the text refer to the time of publication. Check the current information on the linked page below the article.
Bad versus good air. We probably don’t need to stress too much the poorer air quality in cities and indoor spaces, because everyone already knows about it. And you have probably also heard of “sick building syndrome”. Poor ventilation systems, reinforced concrete building materials, air conditioners, radiators and the radiation from the electronics that surround us contribute to a constant decline in immunity and mood.
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The air in these places is polluted, dry and full of positive ions (which do not have a positive effect on us). Add to that the presence of various allergens in the air and incorrect chest (shallow) breathing caused by a fast-paced (and stressful) lifestyle. No wonder, then, that anxiety, neuroses, poor concentration, headaches, insomnia and respiratory problems are increasingly common these days.
Air quality is extremely important for quality of life. And of holidays. The forest, mountains, a park, meadows, the sea… in all these places we feel better, happier, more carefree and more relaxed. We believe that here, too, we don’t need to stress too much that the air is of better quality in these places… read on to find out why.
What is the secret of the healing power of good air
Did you know that by spending time in the forest (in nature) we are actually staying in its natural immune system? The Japanese term Shinrin Yoku or forest bathing is a method we have already written about. In fact, plants and trees release phytoncides – essential oils that act as a real antibiotic for them and protect them from bacteria, fungi and other harmful microbes. Yes, not even trees like harmful microorganisms. Phytoncides increase the number of T lymphocytes (killer cells) in our body, which can block or slow down even the growth of cancer cells, thereby also improving our natural immunity.
In addition, in nature rich in trees and vegetation, next to lakes and waterfalls (a description that fits our Camping Plitvice location) the air is especially charged with negative ions (yes, these have a positive effect on us). The secret of the healing power of this air is that negative ions, through their charge, bind 10 to 80 oxygen ion molecules to themselves, which can then be effectively absorbed into the blood through the alveoli of the lungs. Negative ions also bind to various bacteria, viruses and fungi in the air and, joined together like this, fall to the ground because of their weight. Therefore negative ions effectively clean the air, help detoxify the blood and tissues in our body, are allies against harmful free radicals and balance serotonin levels (the happiness hormone). No wonder, then, that they are also called air vitamins.
On top of all this, the air in these areas is additionally charged with oligoelements, i.e. chemical trace elements that are essential for the reactions in our body that are vital for life. Furthermore, forest air is also rich in terpenes, especially in areas where cypress, fir and pine grow.
For example, borneol is a terpene that protects the brain and nerves and helps against degenerative brain diseases.
The benefits of healing air
Aerotherapy deals precisely with all these benefits of healing air in certain locations and with treatment using it. Camping Plitvice is located in the municipality of Plitvička Jezera, surrounded by forested mountain areas (beech, hornbeam, fir) and at the meeting point of maritime, continental and mountain climates and vegetation. Just imagine, then, how rich the air in this area is with all these components.
By staying at our campsite you can feel many benefits, such as relief from respiratory problems, reduced allergies as well as inflammation in the joints and muscles, stress and skin problems, regulated blood pressure and a lower risk of heart attack, hormonal balance (especially of the thyroid gland) and increased vitality and immunity (the production of white blood cells increases).
The concentration of negative ions in such natural wooded areas next to lakes or waterfalls can reach as many as 5,000 negative ions per cm3. If we compare this with the figures showing that there are around a hundred in living spaces and up to around fifty in office spaces, while the human body needs 1,000 negative ions per cm3 to function normally – the numbers speak for themselves. And the best thing of all – the air is available to everyone and free!
Inhalation of bee products and breathing exercises are a bonus
Apitherapy is a method of treatment with bee products, and one way is through inhalation. Breathing in air from the hive, which is rich in microparticles of propolis (another natural antibiotic), pollen, royal jelly (an excellent source of collagen) and honey (antiviral, anti-cancer properties), improves the overall function of the respiratory system and reduces allergies and fatigue.
Although this type of therapy is still rare in Croatia, at our Camping Plitvice you can find the service Honey Inhalation.
If you practise correct breathing techniques (pranayama) that include abdominal breathing with the belly and diaphragm (also recommended for crisis situations such as coronavirus), you can increase your lung capacity, correct poor shallow (chest) breathing and take in a sufficient amount of oxygen. Pranayama and meditation under a tree bring additional healing effects.
How long and how often should you spend time in nature?
A two-hour stay in the forest will provide the benefits mentioned, which can last a week or several weeks. Ideally, then, you should walk or spend time in nature twice a month, and for a longer stay and maximum benefits you can. Psst…just switch off your mobile phone (or at least turn the sound down), get rid of electronics for a few hours and you will immerse yourself better in this natural world of richness and source of vitality.