Forests can heal, calm and soothe us
The photographer of ‘Tangled Trunks’, a winner in our 2017 ‘Experience Forests, Experience PEFC’ photo contest, tells us the story behind her photo why forests are so important for our health and wellbeing.
Forests can heal, calm and soothe us
21 November 2018 Forests in photos
Our November photo takes us into the depths of the Indian forest, onto the tracks of a playing elephant family.
Anuradha Marwah, a runner up in our 2017 ‘Experience Forests, Experience PEFC’ photo contest, tells us more about her photo ‘Tangled Trunks’ and why forests are so important for our health and wellbeing.
Tangled Trunks
How do you feel about forests?
Quoting John Muir “The clearest way into the universe is through a forest wilderness”. Even as a child, I was always drawn to nature. I believe I have a connection to it, which I can strongly feel when I am in a forest.
Forests can heal, calm and soothe us. Humans evolved in nature. Science has even proven that our brains behave differently when we spend time in nature. It affects how we feel and think which has a direct impact on our immunity. I feel at home and at my happiest when I am in the forest.
How did the forest inspire you to take your winning photo?
The forest of Corbett National Park in India, where I took the photo, has always been my favourite path of wilderness. The tall towering trees, the vast expanses of grasslands, the river and the forest’s residents like tigers and elephants, have always held a special place in my heart.
On my photo, two young elephant bulls are jousting in preparation for real battles ahead. A unique combination of majestic yet raw power, family bonding and animal emotions – these gentle rulers of the forest are truly extraordinary.
What do you think of the work that an organization such as PEFC does to care for forests?
Organizations like PEFC play an important role in protecting the forests and in promoting sustainable development goals. Forests around the world are vulnerable and organizations like PEFC can influence and bring into effect a mutually beneficial environment where forestry and its related economic sector can grow and function without depleting forest covers and causing damage, and at the same time help preserve this natural resource.