This study aims to evaluate the effects of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Forest Medicine interventions on psychological well-being, stress reduction, and overall health outcomes in adults. Shinrin-Yoku, originated in Japan, is a nature-based practice that involves mindful immersion in forest environments. The intervention combines exposure to natural ecosystems with evidence-based techniques such as mindfulness and guided relaxation. Participants will be guided through structured sessions in natural forest settings to assess changes in stress biomarkers, emotional regulation, sleep quality, and quality of life. The study is designed as a non-pharmacological, non-invasive intervention, focusing on promoting mental health and preventive medicine. The findings are expected to provide evidence on the benefits of Forest Medicine as a complementary health approach and contribute to the development of international standards for nature-based therapies.
The present study investigates the therapeutic potential of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Forest Medicine interventions as structured nature-based health practices. Originating in Japan during the 1980s, Shinrin-Yoku has gained recognition worldwide for its reported psychological and physiological benefits. This research seeks to contribute to the scientific evidence supporting these interventions as complementary approaches in preventive and integrative medicine. Participants will attend guided sessions in natural forest environments. Each session will include periods of mindful walking, sensory awareness exercises, and guided relaxation. No pharmacological or invasive procedures are involved. Outcome measures include validated psychological scales (e.g., stress, anxiety, depression, quality of life), as well as physiological indicators such as heart rate variability and sleep quality. The study design follows an interventional model focusing on mental health and wellness promotion. Data collection will be conducted before, during, and after the intervention period to assess both immediate and sustained effects. This project is intended to support the integration of Forest Medicine into broader health strategies, aligning with international research efforts in preventive care, psychosomatic health, and nature-based therapeutic modalities. The study also aims to establish standards for training and best practices in forest-based health interventions across Europe and beyond.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
131
Weekly 2-hour guided sessions for 8 consecutive weeks in natural forest environments. Each session includes mindful walking, multisensory awareness (sight, sound, smell, touch), breathing exercises, and guided relaxation practices. Facilitated by certified Forest Therapy and Mindfulness instructors. The intervention is non-invasive, focused on stress reduction, emotional regulation, and improved subjective well-being through mindful immersion in nature.
Weekly 2-hour structured sessions for 8 consecutive weeks conducted indoors (classroom or wellness center). Activities include health education talks on stress and wellness, guided music-based relaxation, and eco-friendly culinary tasting experiences. Designed to provide an active comparator condition controlling for attention, group interaction, and wellness-related content without exposure to forest environments or formal mindfulness practices.
Sessions conducted in natural forest settings within the Serranía de Ronda, specifically the Valle del Genal area.
Ronda, Andalusia, Spain
Change in Perceived Stress (PSS-10)
Mean change in Perceived Stress Scale (10-item version, validated questionnaire) scores from baseline to 8 weeks.
Time frame: Baseline and 8 weeks (end of intervention)
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