1
|
Halámek F, Světlák M, Malatincová T, Halámková J, Slezáčková A, Barešová Z, Lekárová M. Enhancing patient well-being in oncology waiting rooms: a pilot field experiment on the emotional impact of virtual forest therapy. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1392397. [PMID: 38800677 PMCID: PMC11117429 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1392397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study explores the emotional impact of virtual forest therapy delivered through audio-visual recordings shown to patients in the oncology waiting rooms, focusing on whether simulated forest walks can positively influence patients' emotional states compared to traditional waiting room stimuli. Methods The study involved 117 participants from a diverse group of oncology patients in the outpatient clinic waiting room at the Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute. Using a partially randomized controlled trial design, the study assessed basic emotional dimensions-valence and arousal-as well as specific psychological states such as thought control, sadness, anxiety, and pain. This assessment used the Self-Assessment Manikin and the modified Emotional Thermometer before and after participants watched three video types (forest, sea, news). Baseline stress levels were measured using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6). Results Participants exposed to forest and sea videos reported significant improvements in emotional valence and reduced arousal, suggesting a calming and uplifting effect. No significant changes were observed in the control and news groups. Secondary outcomes related to anxiety, sadness, and pain showed no significant interaction effects, though small but significant main effects of time on these variables were noted. Discussion The findings suggest that videos of forest and sea can be a beneficial intervention in the oncology waiting rooms by enhancing patients' emotional well-being. This pilot study underscores the potential for integrating virtual mental health support elements into healthcare settings to improve patient care experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filip Halámek
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czechia
| | - Miroslav Světlák
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czechia
| | - Tatiana Malatincová
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Jana Halámková
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czechia
| | - Alena Slezáčková
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Zdeňka Barešová
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Monika Lekárová
- Department of Medical Psychology and Psychosomatics, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vermeesch AL, Ellsworth-Kopkowski A, Prather JG, Passel C, Rogers HH, Hansen MM. Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing): A Scoping Review of the Global Research on the Effects of Spending Time in Nature. GLOBAL ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE AND HEALTH 2024; 13:27536130241231258. [PMID: 38420597 PMCID: PMC10901062 DOI: 10.1177/27536130241231258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Background This Scoping review (ScR) builds upon the 2017 review conducted by Hansen et al which contributed to evidence base shinrin-yoku (SY), also known as forest bathing (FB), has many positive health effects and is becoming a prescribed dose (specific time spent in nature) by health care providers. Practice and research regarding SY, has been historically based in Asian countries with a recent increase in Europe. The need and call for more research worldwide continues to further the evidence of SY as a health promotion modality. Through this ScR the authors identified programmatic components, health information monitored and screened, time spent in nature, geographical regions, trends, and themes in SY research worldwide. Methods Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines we searched across 7 electronic databases for SY or FB research articles from 2017 through 2022. PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo, ScienceDirect, SCOPUS, Embase, JSTOR were included due to the interdisciplinary nature of SY or FB research. Each database provided unique strengths ensuring a capture of a wide range of articles. The resulting articles were screened and extracted through Covidence. Results Database searches returned 241 results, with 110 references removed during the deduplication process, 131 were initially screened in the title and abstract review stage. Resulting in 82 unique results deemed relevant and screened in full text. During the final stage of the review, 63 articles met all inclusion criteria and were extracted for data. Conclusions The practice of SY has physiological (PHYS) and psychological (PSYCH) benefits across age groups. Research findings indicate either the natural or the virtual environment (VW) has significant health benefits. Continued research is encouraged globally for short- and long-term health outcomes for all individuals. The connection with nature benefits the mind, body and soul and is supported by Henry David Thoreau's philosophy: "Our livesneed the relief of where the pine flourishes and the jay still scream."
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amber L. Vermeesch
- Family Nurse Practitioner Concentration Coordinator, UNC Greensboro School of Nursing, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | | | - Jenifer G. Prather
- College of Nursing, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Suseno B, Hastjarjo TD. The effect of simulated natural environments in virtual reality and 2D video to reduce stress. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1016652. [PMID: 37251017 PMCID: PMC10214952 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1016652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress is a common problem associated with poor physical and psychological health. Exposure to the natural environment is one method for reducing stress. The real and simulated natural environments have a restorative effect on stress reduction. In contrast to the real environment, simulated natural environments, such as virtual reality and 2D video, provide safer and more controllable exposure. Several studies on the restorative effects of the natural environment in virtual reality and 2D video have been conducted. However, the difference between the two in reducing stress must be clarified. This study was conducted to determine the effect of the simulated natural environments in virtual reality and 2D video and their differences in reducing stress. This study hypothesizes that both simulated natural environments in virtual reality and 2D video can reduce stress, but there is a difference between them in reducing stress. Fifty-three subjects were divided into two experimental groups: 2D video (n = 28) and virtual reality (n = 25). The results indicated that simulated natural environments in virtual reality and 2D video reduced stress. However, there was no difference between the two groups regarding stress reduction.
Collapse
|
4
|
Olszewska-Guizzo A, Sia A, Fogel A, Ho R. Features of urban green spaces associated with positive emotions, mindfulness and relaxation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20695. [PMID: 36450827 PMCID: PMC9712545 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24637-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an established consensus among researchers that contact with nature improves mental health, wellbeing, and quality of life in urbanised environments. Studies tend to examine the health impacts of nature without identifying specific physical and spatial landscape features that could guide health-promoting design of urban green spaces. A growing body of evidence suggests that landscape features described in the Contemplative Landscape Model (CLM) can be used to measure therapeutic value of urban landscapes. CLM assesses urban landscapes across seven sub-scales: Layers of the Landscape, Landform, Vegetation, Color and Light, Compatibility, Archetypal Elements and Character of Peace and Silence. We exposed 74 healthy adults to six urban landscapes in laboratory (video representations) and naturalistic outdoor settings. We explored the associations between the visual quality of urban landscapes annotated with CLM, with self-reported positive emotions and brain activity consistent with mindfulness (Theta waves), relaxation (Alpha waves) and attention restoration (Beta waves), and differences between laboratory and naturalistic setting. CLM scores predicted self-reported Valence and Arousal, and low frequency power bands: Alpha and Theta in the naturalistic setting. Landscape features showing the strongest associations were Character of Peace and Silence, Layers of the Landscape and Archetypal Elements. Alpha, Theta brain reactivity and Arousal scores, were significantly different between laboratory and naturalistic settings (p < 0.05), while Valence scores between those settings were statistically identical (p = 0.22). Self-reported Valence and Arousal, but not brain activity, were significantly associated with the majority of landscape features in the laboratory setting. The results of the study provide guidelines on the urban landscape features most beneficial for human health, to inform urban green space design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Olszewska-Guizzo
- grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Institute for Health Innovation & Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore ,NeuroLandscape Foundation, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Angelia Sia
- grid.467827.80000 0004 0620 8814National Parks Board, Centre for Urban Greenery and Ecology, Singapore, Singapore ,grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Anna Fogel
- grid.452264.30000 0004 0530 269XSingapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger Ho
- grid.4280.e0000 0001 2180 6431Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bikomeye JC, Balza JS, Kwarteng JL, Beyer AM, Beyer KMM. The impact of greenspace or nature-based interventions on cardiovascular health or cancer-related outcomes: A systematic review of experimental studies. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276517. [PMID: 36417344 PMCID: PMC9683573 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Globally, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer are leading causes of morbidity and mortality. While having different etiologies, CVD and cancer are linked by multiple shared risk factors, the presence of which exacerbate adverse outcomes for individuals with either disease. For both pathologies, factors such as poverty, lack of physical activity (PA), poor dietary intake, and climate change increase risk of adverse outcomes. Prior research has shown that greenspaces and other nature-based interventions (NBIs) contribute to improved health outcomes and climate change resilience. OBJECTIVE To summarize evidence on the impact of greenspaces or NBIs on cardiovascular health and/or cancer-related outcomes and identify knowledge gaps to inform future research. METHODS Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 and Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies (PRESS) guidelines, we searched five databases: Web of Science, Scopus, Medline, PsycINFO and GreenFile. Two blinded reviewers used Rayyan AI and a predefined criteria for article inclusion and exclusion. The risk of bias was assessed using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). This review is registered with PROSPERO, ID # CRD42021231619. RESULTS & DISCUSSION Of 2565 articles retrieved, 31 articles met the inclusion criteria, and overall had a low risk of bias. 26 articles studied cardiovascular related outcomes and 5 studied cancer-related outcomes. Interventions were coded into 4 categories: forest bathing, green exercise, gardening, and nature viewing. Outcomes included blood pressure (BP), cancer-related quality of life (QoL) and (more infrequently) biomarkers of CVD risk. Descriptions of findings are presented as well as visual presentations of trends across the findings using RAW graphs. Overall studies included have a low risk of bias; and alluvial chart trends indicated that NBIs may have beneficial effects on CVD and cancer-related outcomes. CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS (1) Clinical implication: Healthcare providers should consider the promotion of nature-based programs to improve health outcomes. (2) Policy implication: There is a need for investment in equitable greenspaces to improve health outcomes and build climate resilient neighborhoods. (3) Research or academic implication: Research partnerships with community-based organizations for a comprehensive study of benefits associated with NBIs should be encouraged to reduce health disparities and ensure intergenerational health equity. There is a need for investigation of the mechanisms by which NBIs impact CVD and exploration of the role of CVD biological markers of inflammation among cancer survivors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean C. Bikomeye
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, PhD Program in Public and Community Health, Institute for Health & Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Joanna S. Balza
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, PhD Program in Public and Community Health, Institute for Health & Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Jamila L. Kwarteng
- Division of Community Health, Institute for Health & Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
- MCW Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Andreas M. Beyer
- MCW Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Kirsten M. M. Beyer
- Division of Epidemiology & Social Sciences, PhD Program in Public and Community Health, Institute for Health & Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
- MCW Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
McEwan K, Collett H, Nairn J, Bird J, Faghy MA, Pfeifer E, Jackson JE, Cook C, Bond A. The Feasibility and Impact of Practising Online Forest Bathing to Improve Anxiety, Rumination, Social Connection and Long-COVID Symptoms: A Pilot Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14905. [PMID: 36429623 PMCID: PMC9691063 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-COVID affects over 144 million people globally. In the absence of treatments, there is a need to establish the efficacy of therapies that improve patient outcomes. Forest bathing has been demonstrated to improve physical and mental outcomes but there is no evidence in Long-COVID patients. Accordingly, this pilot study sought to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of online forest bathing in adults with Long-COVID. METHODS Feasibility was assessed by monitoring retention rates and participant feedback. In a waitlist controlled, repeated measures design, 22 Long-COVID patients completed weekly online surveys during a four-week waitlist control period, before engaging in four weekly online forest bathing sessions, completing post-intervention surveys following each session. RESULTS In terms of retention, 27% did not provide post-intervention data, reasons for non-adherence were: feeling too ill, having medical appointments, or having career responsibilities. Compared with the waitlist control period, there were statistically significant improvements in Anxiety (49% decrease), Rumination (48% decrease), Social Connection (78% increase), and Long-COVID symptoms (22% decrease). Written qualitative comments indicated that participants experienced feelings of calm and joy, felt more connected socially and with nature, and experienced a break from the pain and rumination surrounding their illness. CONCLUSIONS Online Forest bathing resulted in significant improvements in well-being and symptom severity and could be considered an accessible and inexpensive adjunct therapy for Long-COVID patients. Where people have limited access to in-person nature, virtual nature may offer an alternative to improve health and well-being outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten McEwan
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | | | - Jean Nairn
- Woodlands Breathing, Edinburgh EH27 8BW, UK
| | - Jamie Bird
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | - Mark A. Faghy
- Biomedical Research Theme, School of Human Sciences, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
- Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL–PIVOT) Network, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Eric Pfeifer
- Catholic University of Applied Sciences, Karlstr. 63, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jessica E. Jackson
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | | | - Amanda Bond
- Wild Edgewalker Forest Therapy, Jersey JE3 8AF, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nishida Y, Yamada S, Nakagawa Y, Aoyama T. The influence of interest in tasks on the autonomic nervous system. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09553. [PMID: 35663761 PMCID: PMC9160470 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Although prior studies have indicated the relationships among decreased parasympathetic activity, schizophrenia, and depression, the physiological effects of psychiatric occupational therapy tasks have not been adequately explored. Therefore, it is necessary to quantitatively examine the physiological changes in the autonomic nervous system when performing such tasks to devise more individualized therapies. Accordingly, we examined the influence of task interest and its relationship with psychological characteristics. The participants included in this study were 22 healthy individuals. They completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the Social Phobia Scale. Participants selected the most and least interesting bookmarks from a set of 19 different color options, and indicated their degree of interest on a visual analog scale. An electrocardiogram was used during each task to record participants' cardiac sympathetic index (CSI) and cardiac vagal index (CVI) as they performed two tasks (interesting and uninteresting). The correlations between the degree of interest and CSI/CVI, and between the scores of the questionnaires and CSI/CVI were examined. There was a negative correlation between the degree of interest and CSI during the uninteresting task. Task interest may have contributed to suppressing sympathetic dominance and reducing mental and physiological loads, even if the tasks differed only color-wise. Physiological effects emerged from participants’ degree of task interest. Further identification of objective and therapeutic mechanisms may lead to wider applications of activities in different areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yurika Nishida
- Department of Physical Therapy, Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Sumie Yamada
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshiro Nakagawa
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Chubu University, Kasugai, Aichi, Japan
| | - Tomoki Aoyama
- Department of Physical Therapy, Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
- Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dunham CM, Burger AJ, Hileman BM, Chance EA, Hutchinson AE. Bispectral Index Alterations and Associations With Autonomic Changes During Hypnosis in Trauma Center Researchers: Formative Evaluation Study. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e24044. [PMID: 34037529 PMCID: PMC8190650 DOI: 10.2196/24044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous work performed by our group demonstrated that intermittent reductions in bispectral index (BIS) values were found during neurofeedback following mindfulness instructions. Hypnosis was induced to enhance reductions in BIS values. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess physiologic relaxation and explore its associations with BIS values using autonomic monitoring. METHODS Each session consisted of reading a 4-minute baseline neutral script and playing an 18-minute hypnosis tape to 3 researchers involved in the BIS neurofeedback study. In addition to BIS monitoring, autonomic monitoring was performed, and this included measures of electromyography (EMG), skin temperature, skin conductance, respiratory rate, expired carbon dioxide, and heart rate variability. The resulting data were analyzed using two-tailed t tests, correlation analyses, and multivariate linear regression analyses. RESULTS We found that hypnosis was associated with reductions in BIS (P<.001), EMG (P<.001), respiratory rate (P<.001), skin conductance (P=.006), and very low frequency power (P=.04); it was also associated with increases in expired carbon dioxide (P<.001), skin temperature (P=.04), high frequency power (P<.001), and successive heart interbeat interval difference (P=.04) values. Decreased BIS values were associated with reduced EMG measures (R=0.76; P<.001), respiratory rate (R=0.35; P=.004), skin conductance (R=0.57; P<.001), and low frequency power (R=0.32; P=.01) and with increased high frequency power (R=-0.53; P<.001), successive heart interbeat interval difference (R=-0.32; P=.009), and heart interbeat interval SD (R=-0.26; P=.04) values. CONCLUSIONS Hypnosis appeared to induce mental and physical relaxation, enhance parasympathetic neural activation, and attenuate sympathetic nervous system activity, changes that were associated with BIS values. Findings from this preliminary formative evaluation suggest that the current hypnosis model may be useful for assessing autonomic physiological associations with changes in BIS values, thus motivating us to proceed with a larger investigation in trauma center nurses and physicians.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda J Burger
- St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | | | - Elisha A Chance
- St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Suenaga H, Murakami K, Murata N, Nishikawa S, Tsutsumi M, Nogaki H. The Effects of an Artificial Garden on Heart Rate Variability among Healthy Young Japanese Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17249465. [PMID: 33348755 PMCID: PMC7766260 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17249465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Spending time in nature might positively influence mental health by inducing a relaxed state. Recently, gardens have been created on hospital rooftops in Japan to help inpatients recover from various physical and mental aliments. However, there is little evidence regarding any positive physiological effects of artificial gardens designed for health. The purpose of this study was to assess the psychological and cardiovascular responses incited by artificial natural environments. Japanese university students (n = 38) participated in a one-group pretest post-test experiment conducted at the Yamaguchi Flower Expo in Japan in October 2018, designed to assess whether exposure to four environments (forest, flowers, ocean, and artificial garden for health) influenced heart rate variability measures. After pretesting to determine baseline measurements, participants completed a circuit through the four natural environments. Following circuit completion, post-testing determined that the low frequency/high frequency ratio was significantly lower in the overall sample and the four areas had similar influences on heart rate variability. Findings suggest that exposure to nature by walking through natural areas and in rooftop artificial gardens might enhance the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Collapse
|
10
|
Zabini F, Albanese L, Becheri FR, Gavazzi G, Giganti F, Giovanelli F, Gronchi G, Guazzini A, Laurino M, Li Q, Marzi T, Mastorci F, Meneguzzo F, Righi S, Viggiano MP. Comparative Study of the Restorative Effects of Forest and Urban Videos during COVID-19 Lockdown: Intrinsic and Benchmark Values. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17218011. [PMID: 33143327 PMCID: PMC7672570 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17218011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The prolonged lockdown imposed to contain the COrona VIrus Disease 19 COVID-19 pandemic prevented many people from direct contact with nature and greenspaces, raising alarms for a possible worsening of mental health. This study investigated the effectiveness of a simple and affordable remedy for improving psychological well-being, based on audio-visual stimuli brought by a short computer video showing forest environments, with an urban video as a control. Randomly selected participants were assigned the forest or urban video, to look at and listen to early in the morning, and questionnaires to fill out. In particular, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) Form Y collected in baseline condition and at the end of the study and the Part II of the Sheehan Patient Rated Anxiety Scale (SPRAS) collected every day immediately before and after watching the video. The virtual exposure to forest environments showed effective to reduce perceived anxiety levels in people forced by lockdown in limited spaces and environmental deprivation. Although significant, the effects were observed only in the short term, highlighting the limitation of the virtual experiences. The reported effects might also represent a benchmark to disentangle the determinants of health effects due to real forest experiences, for example, the inhalation of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOC).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Zabini
- Institute for Bioeconomy, National Research Council, 10 Via Madonna del Piano, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy;
- Correspondence: (F.Z.); (F.M.); Tel.: +39-333-379-2947 (F.Z.); +39-392-985-0002 (F.M.)
| | - Lorenzo Albanese
- Institute for Bioeconomy, National Research Council, 10 Via Madonna del Piano, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy;
| | | | - Gioele Gavazzi
- Section of Psychology—Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 12 Via di San Salvi, I-50135 Firenze, Italy; (G.G.); (F.G); (F.G.); (G.G.); (T.M.); (S.R.); (M.P.V.)
| | - Fiorenza Giganti
- Section of Psychology—Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 12 Via di San Salvi, I-50135 Firenze, Italy; (G.G.); (F.G); (F.G.); (G.G.); (T.M.); (S.R.); (M.P.V.)
| | - Fabio Giovanelli
- Section of Psychology—Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 12 Via di San Salvi, I-50135 Firenze, Italy; (G.G.); (F.G); (F.G.); (G.G.); (T.M.); (S.R.); (M.P.V.)
| | - Giorgio Gronchi
- Section of Psychology—Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 12 Via di San Salvi, I-50135 Firenze, Italy; (G.G.); (F.G); (F.G.); (G.G.); (T.M.); (S.R.); (M.P.V.)
| | - Andrea Guazzini
- Department of Education, Languages, Intercultural Studies, Literatures, and Psychology (FORLILPSI), University of Florence, 12 Via di San Salvi, I-50135 Firenze, Italy;
| | - Marco Laurino
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, 1 Via Giuseppe Moruzzi, I-56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine—Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8603, Japan;
| | - Tessa Marzi
- Section of Psychology—Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 12 Via di San Salvi, I-50135 Firenze, Italy; (G.G.); (F.G); (F.G.); (G.G.); (T.M.); (S.R.); (M.P.V.)
| | - Francesca Mastorci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, 1 Via Giuseppe Moruzzi, I-56124 Pisa, Italy; (M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Francesco Meneguzzo
- Institute for Bioeconomy, National Research Council, 10 Via Madonna del Piano, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy;
- Central Scientific Committee, Italian Alpine Club, 19 Via E. Petrella, I-20124 Milano, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.Z.); (F.M.); Tel.: +39-333-379-2947 (F.Z.); +39-392-985-0002 (F.M.)
| | - Stefania Righi
- Section of Psychology—Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 12 Via di San Salvi, I-50135 Firenze, Italy; (G.G.); (F.G); (F.G.); (G.G.); (T.M.); (S.R.); (M.P.V.)
| | - Maria Pia Viggiano
- Section of Psychology—Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, 12 Via di San Salvi, I-50135 Firenze, Italy; (G.G.); (F.G); (F.G.); (G.G.); (T.M.); (S.R.); (M.P.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bielinis E, Xu J, Omelan AA. A Novel Anti-Environmental Forest Experience Scale to Predict Preferred Pleasantness Associated with Forest Environments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186731. [PMID: 32947772 PMCID: PMC7558048 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, a method for predicting the preferred pleasantness induced by different forest environments, represented by virtual photographs, was proposed and evaluated using a novel Anti-Environmental Forest Experience Scale psychometric test. The evaluation questionnaire contained twenty-one items divided into four different subscales. The factor structure was assessed in two separate samples collected online (sample 1: n = 254, sample 2: n = 280). The internal validity of the four subscales was confirmed using exploratory factor analysis. Discriminant validity was tested and confirmed using the Amoebic Self Scale (spatial–symbolic domain). Concurrent validity was confirmed using the Connectedness to Nature Scale. Predictive validity was based on an assessment of pleasantness induced by nine different photographs (control—urban landscapes, forest landscapes, dense forest landscapes), with subscales differently correlated with the level of pleasantness assessed for each photograph. This evaluation instrument is appropriate for predicting preferred pleasantness induced by different forest environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Bielinis
- Department of Forestry and Forest Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Management and Agriculture, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Pl. Łódzki 2, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Jianzhong Xu
- Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology, and Foundations, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39759, USA;
- Faculty of Education, University of Macau, Macau 999078, China
| | - Aneta Anna Omelan
- Department of Tourism, Recreation and Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, ul. Oczapowskiego 5, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Forest and Wellbeing: Bridging Medical and Forest Research for Effective Forest-Based Initiatives. FORESTS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/f11080791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Research Highlights: This review gives an overview of existing literature on the emerging topic of human wellbeing-forest contact nexus and provides a preliminary framework linking forests to wellbeing by highlighting key variables affecting this relationship. Background and Objectives: Existing literature reveals the psychological, physiological and social wellbeing benefits of contact with forest ecosystems; however, the role of forests in this relationship remains largely unexplored. The objectives of this review are twofold: (i) to provide an overview of the contributions of forest experiences to human wellbeing and the related interplay with forest ecosystems and (ii) to identify knowledge gaps to inform future research and systematize information available for forest managers and planners to support the development of effective forest-based initiatives. Materials and Methods: A scoping review was performed with a five-phase method integrating a systematic approach on Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed databases and snowball search. Studies were analyzed using a descriptive-analytical method. Results: Overall, 93 papers were included in the review. These are mainly from health-related sciences providing limited information for forest managers, planners and practitioners. Four main underlying variables of the forest-wellbeing relationship are identified: interaction, forest features, sensorial dimension of the forest and individual traits and reactions. Conclusions: Forest-based initiatives provide good opportunities for supporting public health and time spent in contact with forests seems to have a “health-bonus”. Whether and to what extent forest management can contribute to this is still poorly investigated. There is the need to better study causal relationships between specific forest features, type of interactions, frequency and “dose” of experiences, individual reactions and needs and wellbeing effects to maximize benefits from forest-based initiatives.
Collapse
|
13
|
Bielinis E, Simkin J, Puttonen P, Tyrväinen L. Effect of Viewing Video Representation of the Urban Environment and Forest Environment on Mood and Level of Procrastination. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E5109. [PMID: 32679839 PMCID: PMC7400642 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17145109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A common problem among students is the problem of delaying important work activities, which is conceptualized as procrastination. Since procrastination can cause considerable costs for society, we would like to find a method to effectively alleviate the symptoms of this conditioning. It has been proven in an earlier study that staying in the forest environment increases vitality and reduces anxiety, and the negative state of these features can be associated with the intensification of procrastination symptoms. Therefore, it is likely that watching a forest video may decrease the probability or intensity of procrastination. To measure the impact of the forest environment on the level of procrastination of the subjects, a randomized experiment was carried out, in which the subjects watched in random order (on different days) one of two 15-min videos: one showing a walk in the forest area and one showing a walk in an urban environment (control). We measured the level of so-called 'fluid procrastination' including three aspects: 'lack of energy to do the work', 'inability to get to work' and 'pessimistic attitude to do the work' with a set of questions the respondents completed before and after the experiment. The results showed that one aspect of fluid procrastination ('pessimistic attitude to do the work') can be effectively lowered by watching a video showing the forest environment. In contrast, watching a video of an urban environment increased the procrastination levels for two other aspects of procrastination ('lack of energy to do the work', 'inability to get to work'). We also measured three other parameters before and after the experiment: mood state, restoration and vitality. Watching the video from forest area raised mood and restoration and watching the video from urban area, decreased mood, vitality and restoration. The study suggests that watching a video showing forest landscapes could be used as an effective remedy for problems related to procrastination among students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Bielinis
- Department of Forestry and Forest Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Management and Agriculture, University of Warmia and Mazury, Pl. Łódzki 2, 10-727 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Jenni Simkin
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Latokartanonkaari 9, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (J.S.); (L.T.)
| | - Pasi Puttonen
- Department of Forest Sciences, University of Helsinki, Latokartanonkaari 7, 00014 Helsinki, Finland;
| | - Liisa Tyrväinen
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Latokartanonkaari 9, 00790 Helsinki, Finland; (J.S.); (L.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Jo H, Song C, Miyazaki Y. Physiological Benefits of Viewing Nature: A Systematic Review of Indoor Experiments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E4739. [PMID: 31783531 PMCID: PMC6926748 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16234739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Contact with nature has been proposed as a solution to achieve physiological relaxation and stress recovery, and a number of scientific verification outcomes have been shown. Compared with studies of the other senses, studies investigating the visual effects of nature have been at the forefront of this research field. A variety of physiological indicators adopted for use in indoor experiments have shown the benefits of viewing nature. In this systematic review, we examined current peer-reviewed articles regarding the physiological effects of visual stimulation from elements or representations of nature in an indoor setting. The articles were analyzed for their stimulation method, physiological measures applied, groups of participants, and outcomes. Thirty-seven articles presenting evidence of the physiological effects of viewing nature were selected. The majority of the studies that used display stimuli, such as photos, 3D images, virtual reality, and videos of natural landscapes, confirmed that viewing natural scenery led to more relaxed body responses than viewing the control. Studies that used real nature stimuli reported that visual contact with flowers, green plants, and wooden materials had positive effects on cerebral and autonomic nervous activities compared with the control. Accumulation of scientific evidence of the physiological relaxation associated with viewing elements of nature would be useful for preventive medicine, specifically nature therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyunju Jo
- Center for Environment, Health, and Field Sciences, Chiba University, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan; (H.J.); (C.S.)
| | - Chorong Song
- Center for Environment, Health, and Field Sciences, Chiba University, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan; (H.J.); (C.S.)
- Department of Forest Resources, Kongju National University, Yesan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do 32439, Korea
| | - Yoshifumi Miyazaki
- Center for Environment, Health, and Field Sciences, Chiba University, Kashiwa, Chiba 277-0882, Japan; (H.J.); (C.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dunham CM, Burger AL, Hileman BM, Chance EA, Hutchinson AE, Kohli CM, DeNiro L, Tall JM, Lisko P. Brainwave Self-Regulation During Bispectral Index TM Neurofeedback in Trauma Center Nurses and Physicians After Receiving Mindfulness Instructions. Front Psychol 2019; 10:2153. [PMID: 31616348 PMCID: PMC6775210 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifty-seven level I trauma center nurses/physicians participated in a 4-day intervention to learn relaxed alertness using mindfulness-based instructions and EEG neurofeedback. Neurofeedback was provided by a Bispectral IndexTM (BIS) system that continuously displays a BIS value (0-100) on the monitor screen. Reductions in the BIS value indicate that power in a high-frequency band (30-47 Hz) is decreased and power in an intermediate band (11-20 Hz) is increased. A wellbeing tool with four positive affect and seven negative affect items based on a 5-category Likert scale was used. The wellbeing score is the sum of the positive affect items (positive affect score) and the reverse-scored negative affect items (non-stress score). Of functional concern were four negative affect items rated as moderately, quite a bit, or extremely in a large percent. Of greater concern were all four positive affect items rated as very slightly or none at all, a little, or moderately in over half of the participants. Mean and nadir BIS values were markedly decreased during neurofeedback when compared to baseline values. Post-session relaxation scores were higher than pre-session relaxation scores. Post-session relaxation scores had an inverse relationship with mean and nadir BIS values. Mean and nadir BIS values were inversely associated with NFB cognitive states (i.e., widening the visual field, decreasing effort, attention to space, and relaxed alertness). For all participants, the wellbeing score was higher on day 4 than on day 1. Participants had a higher wellbeing score on day 4 than a larger group of nurses/physicians who did not participate in the BIS neurofeedback trial. Eighty percent of participants demonstrated an improvement in the positive affect or non-stress score on day 4, when compared to day 1; the wellbeing, non-stress, and positive affect scores were substantially higher on day 4 than on day 1. Additionally, for that 80% of participants, the improvements in wellbeing and non-stress were associated with reductions in day 3 BIS values. These findings indicate that trauma center nurses/physicians participating in an EEG neurofeedback trial with mindfulness instructions had improvements in wellbeing. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT03152331. Registered May 15, 2017.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Michael Dunham
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery Services, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | - Amanda L Burger
- Behavioral Medicine, St. Elizabeth Family Medicine Residency, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | - Barbara M Hileman
- Trauma and Neuroscience Research Department, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | - Elisha A Chance
- Trauma and Neuroscience Research Department, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | - Amy E Hutchinson
- Department of Anesthesiology, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | - Chander M Kohli
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | - Lori DeNiro
- Department of Nursing, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | - Jill M Tall
- Department of Biological Sciences, Youngstown State University, Youngstown, OH, United States
| | - Paul Lisko
- Pastoral Services, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Boardman, OH, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The impact of exposure to films of natural and built environments on state body appreciation. Body Image 2018; 26:70-73. [PMID: 29906631 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Previous work has shown that exposure to images of nature results in elevated state body appreciation, but static images may lack ecological validity. Here, we examined the impact of exposure to short films of simulated, first-person walks in natural or built environments. Thirty-six university students completed a measure of state body appreciation before and after watching films of either a walk in a natural or a built environment created specifically for the present study. Two weeks later, they completed the same task but watched the other film type. Results indicated that exposure to the film of a natural environment resulted in significantly elevated state body appreciation (d = 0.66). There was no significant change in state body appreciation following exposure to the film of the built environment (d = 0.14). These findings suggest that exposure to films depicting the natural environment may promote immediate, moderate-sized improvements in state body image.
Collapse
|
17
|
Dunham CM, McClain JV, Burger A. Comparison of Bispectral Index™ values during the flotation restricted environmental stimulation technique and results for stage I sleep: a prospective pilot investigation. BMC Res Notes 2017; 10:640. [PMID: 29187246 PMCID: PMC5707909 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-017-2947-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine whether Bispectral Index™ values obtained during flotation-restricted environment stimulation technique have a similar profile in a single observation compared to literature-derived results found during sleep and other relaxation-induction interventions. Results Bispectral Index™ values were as follows: awake-state, 96.6; float session-1, 84.3; float session-2, 82.3; relaxation-induction, 82.8; stage I sleep, 86.0; stage II sleep, 66.2; and stages III–IV sleep, 45.1. Awake-state values differed from float session-1 (%difference 12.7%; Cohen’s d = 3.6) and float session-2 (%difference 14.8%; Cohen’s d = 4.6). Relaxation-induction values were similar to float session-1 (%difference 1.8%; Cohen’s d = 0.3) and float session-2 (%difference 0.5%; Cohen’s d = 0.1). Stage I sleep values were similar to float session-1 (%difference 1.9%; Cohen’s d = 0.4) and float session-2 (%difference 4.3%; Cohen’s d = 1.0). Stage II sleep values differed from float session-1 (%difference 21.5%; Cohen’s d = 4.3) and float session-2 (%difference 19.6%; Cohen’s d = 4.0). Stages III–IV sleep values differed from float session-1 (%difference 46.5%; Cohen’s d = 5.6) and float session-2 (%difference 45.2%; Cohen’s d = 5.4). Bispectral Index™ values during flotation were comparable to those found in stage I sleep and nadir values described with other relaxation-induction techniques. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-017-2947-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Michael Dunham
- Trauma, Critical Care, and General Surgery Services, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, 1044 Belmont Ave., Youngstown, OH, 44501, USA.
| | - Jesse V McClain
- Advanced Neurology Associates, Inc, 1340 Belmont Ave., Youngstown, OH, 44504, USA
| | - Amanda Burger
- Behavioral Medicine, St. Elizabeth Family Medicine Residency, 1053 Belmont Ave., Youngstown, OH, 44504, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hansen MM, Jones R, Tocchini K. Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14080851. [PMID: 28788101 PMCID: PMC5580555 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14080851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Background: Current literature supports the comprehensive health benefits of exposure to nature and green environments on human systems. The aim of this state-of-the-art review is to elucidate empirical research conducted on the physiological and psychological effects of Shinrin-Yoku (or Forest Bathing) in transcontinental Japan and China. Furthermore, we aim to encourage healthcare professionals to conduct longitudinal research in Western cultures regarding the clinically therapeutic effects of Shinrin-Yoku and, for healthcare providers/students to consider practicing Shinrin-Yoku to decrease undue stress and potential burnout. Methods: A thorough review was conducted to identify research published with an initial open date range and then narrowing the collection to include papers published from 2007 to 2017. Electronic databases (PubMed, PubMed Central, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Scopus) and snowball references were used to cull papers that evaluated the use of Shinrin-Yoku for various populations in diverse settings. Results: From the 127 papers initially culled using the Boolean phrases: “Shinrin-yoku” AND/OR “forest bathing” AND/OR “nature therapy”, 64 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this summary review and then divided into “physiological,” “psychological,” “sensory metrics” and “frameworks” sub-groups. Conclusions: Human health benefits associated with the immersion in nature continue to be currently researched. Longitudinal research, conducted worldwide, is needed to produce new evidence of the relationships associated with Shinrin-Yoku and clinical therapeutic effects. Nature therapy as a health-promotion method and potential universal health model is implicated for the reduction of reported modern-day “stress-state” and “technostress.”.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret M Hansen
- School of Nursing and Health Professions, University of San Francisco, 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94901, USA.
| | - Reo Jones
- School of Nursing and Health Professions, University of San Francisco, 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94901, USA.
| | - Kirsten Tocchini
- School of Nursing and Health Professions, University of San Francisco, 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94901, USA.
| |
Collapse
|