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USC Dornsife Magazine

5 Ways to Give Yourself a Boost

July 11, 2024
  1. Forest Bathing or “shinrin-yoku” (Japan) This popular pastime involves immersing oneself in nature and focusing on sensory engagement. Reputed benefits include reduced stress, lower blood pressure and improved immune function. “As two-thirds of Japan is covered by forests, perhaps it isn’t surprising that this practice originated there,” says Duncan Williams, director of USC Dornsife’s Shinso Ito Center for Japanese Religions and Culture.
  2. Saunas (Finland and Sweden) Thought to have originated 10,000 years ago, the tradition of the sauna is reputed to improve cardiovascular and mental health, socialization, exercise performance and muscle recovery. Saunas may also alleviate chronic pain and fatigue, reduce the risk of stroke, respiratory disease and dementia, and promote relaxation, stress reduction and better sleep.
  3. Insect-based Nutrition (Asia, Africa, Latin America) Insects are a sustainable, nutritious and high-protein food source that offer health benefits. Some even find them delicious. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 2,000 insect species are consumed in at least 113 countries. Michael Petitti, associate professor (teaching) of writing in the Thematic Option program at USC Dornsife, notes that “chapulines” — grasshoppers fried in garlic and chili and garnished with lime, which he introduces his students to at an East Los Angeles market — may seem like a novelty item to many. “But they also could represent the future of food,” he says.
  4. Wild Winter Swimming (Baltic states, Russia, Nordic countries) Taking a dip in an icy cold sea or lake has long been a New Year’s tradition in many parts of the world, but the practice of regular wild swimming during the winter months is growing in popularity. Devotees say it improves mood, increases cardiovascular and metabolic health and strengthens the immune system — and the research concurs.
  5. Vorfreude (Germany) The German concept of “Vorfreude,” which translates as “the anticipation of joy,” is reputed to help increase well-being, reduce stress and avoid burnout. “You don’t have to wait for ‘grand’ moments, you can plan small, everyday delights to create anticipatory joy that will enable you to benefit from Vorfreude,” says Britta Bothe, professor (teaching) of German.
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