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Leonti M. Are we romanticizing traditional knowledge? A plea for more experimental studies in ethnobiology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:56. [PMID: 38797828 PMCID: PMC11128107 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00697-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
In answer to the debate question "Is ethnobiology romanticizing traditional practices, posing an urgent need for more experimental studies evaluating local knowledge systems?" I suggest to follow-up on field study results adopting an inclusive research agenda, and challenge descriptive data, theories, and hypotheses by means of experiments. Traditional and local knowledge are generally associated with positive societal values by ethnobiologists and, increasingly also by stakeholders. They are seen as a way for improving local livelihoods, biocultural diversity conservation and for promoting sustainable development. Therefore, it is argued that such knowledge needs to be documented, protected, conserved in situ, and investigated by hypothesis testing. Here I argue that a critical mindset is needed when assessing any kind of knowledge, whether it is modern, local, indigenous, or traditional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Leonti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
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Quan W, Yu S, Huang Q, Ying M. The effect of forest-based health and wellness on the stress-relieve of middle-aged people. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1366339. [PMID: 38774044 PMCID: PMC11107287 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1366339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In order to explore the impact of experience in forest-based health and wellness (FHW) on the stress of middle-aged people, 12 participants aged 35-39 were selected to conduct a 3-day/2-night study on FHW experience in Wencheng, Wenzhou. Huawei bracelets were used to monitor participants' movement, pulse and blood pressure and their mood state was measured before and after the health care experience using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) scale. After the FHW experience, the lowest value of bracelet stress appeared on the second day of the experience for men and women. The total mood disturbance (TMD) decreased by 38.8 points on average, which significantly improved the positive mood and relieved the stress. The decompression effect of the FHW experience showed some variability among individuals. Furthermore, there were gender differences in alleviation of fatigue and puzzlement, which was greater for females than males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Quan
- Zhejiang College of Security Technology, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Natural Disaster Remote Sensing Monitoring and Early Warning, Wenzhou, China
| | - Shaona Yu
- Wenzhou Vocational College of Science and Technology, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Adding Carbon Sinks and Reducing Carbon Emissions of Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery Ecosystem, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qi Huang
- Wenzhou Vocational College of Science and Technology, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Adding Carbon Sinks and Reducing Carbon Emissions of Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery Ecosystem, Wenzhou, China
| | - Miaomiao Ying
- Wenzhou Vocational College of Science and Technology, Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Adding Carbon Sinks and Reducing Carbon Emissions of Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery Ecosystem, Wenzhou, China
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Patterson J. Into the wild: uncertain frontiers and sustainable human-nature interactions. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2024; 9:1325963. [PMID: 38596216 PMCID: PMC11003358 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2024.1325963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Humans seldom consider themselves as animals, and that humans are animals is a truth frequently turned into an insulting metaphor indicating "uncivilized" behavior in many cultures. Interestingly, the "civilizing" aspects of Western Culture in the Global North are historically derived from traditions of democracy based on living in cities from which the wild has been banished. This is embedded in the English language since civilizing and civilization come from the Latin for city, civitas, the place where citizens hold voting rights. Beyond the gates of civilization is the wild. How the wild and nature have been constructed and demarcated is an enormously complex and enduring challenge in western philosophy as it relates to knowledge-making, existence, truth, and reality. Indeed, whilst people generally believe they know what nature means, they rarely realize that little in nature is wild. Furthermore, the concept of uncertainty, central to the pandemic, is compounded by climate instability and a potentially disastrous future. This is breaking down what is known, requiring porous and flexible conceptual frontiers and a transdisciplinary approach. This article traces the linguistic separation of humans from their animal origins and wilder environments for political and increasingly greedy economic purposes. It explores the acknowledged complexity of healthy human-nature interactions, juxtaposing information mainly from the humanities and social sciences. Demonstrating how unhealthy the current paradigm has proven to be for humans and the natural world, it brings together conflicting information to disrupt traditional certainties using an innovative bricolage methodology. It weaves and combines different ways of knowing as it considers forms of knowledge-making, rewilding, foraging, the place of magical thinking, and vital force. It concludes that a new paradigm is needed to enable a way of working toward any vision of healthy human-nature interaction.
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Yao W, Luo Q, Zhang X, Zhuo C, Mi L. Exploring the effect of different typical plant community on human stress reduction: a field experiment. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5600. [PMID: 38454088 PMCID: PMC10920666 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56243-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Research has demonstrated the positive effect of natural environment on human restoration and well-being. Time spent in nature can often alleviate both physiological and psychological stress. However, few studies have discussed the environmental health effects of the nature's components and characteristics. Sixty volunteers were recruited and one manufactured environment and five different natural environments were randomly assigned to them, including coniferous forests (pure coniferous forest-PC and mixed coniferous forest-MC), broad-leaved forests (pure broad-leaved forest-PB and mixed broad-leaved forest-MB), and mixed forest (mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest-MCB). Each volunteer sat in a built or natural environment and looked around the environment for 15 min. Physiological (HR, HRV, BP, pulse rate and salivary cortisol) and psychological indicators (POMS and STAI) were used to evaluate the changes in their stress level. Results indicated a strong difference in HR, HRV, POMS and STAI between the built and natural environment, which showed that natural environment can lower the stress level. MC had the best effect on relieving physiological stress, whereas MCB is most successful in improving emotional state and reducing anxiety. Broad-leaved forest and mixed forest significantly affected the DBP and vigor level of the subjects, respectively. While coniferous forest did significantly increase the concentration of salivary cortisol in subjects. The study confirmed that compared to the built environment, the natural environment can relieve the human body's physical and psychological stress and negative emotions, while significantly increasing vitality. And different plant communities also have different effects on the physiological and psychological indicators of the subjects. These results will provide scientific basis for the construction and improvement of urban green space environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfei Yao
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qingzi Luo
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaofeng Zhang
- College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Zhuo
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Longfei Mi
- Engineering Research Center of Concrete Technology Under Marine Environment, Ministry of Education, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, China.
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Fu WJ, Gao F, Zhang X, Dong B, Chen XL, Xu X, Yang ZY, Liu Y. Tree-shrub-grass composite woodland better facilitates emotional recovery in college students emotion better than other plant communities. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1285792. [PMID: 38348255 PMCID: PMC10859427 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1285792] [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: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous research has indicated that natural landscapes exhibit a greater capacity for ameliorating negative emotional states in individuals when compared to urban landscapes. Nevertheless, significant scientific inquiries, such as the uniformity of the rejuvenating effect across distinct categories of natural landscapes on college students and the choice of the optimal plant community for achieving the most potent restorative effect, remain unexplored. This study aimed to address these questions by selecting four plant communities (single-layer grassland, single-layer woodland, tree-grass composite woodland, tree-shrub-grass composite woodland) and using an electroencephalography method to capture the neuroelectric activity of the participants in combination with the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule score to explore the effects of plant community types on emotional recovery. The results showed that all four plant communities significantly increased positive emotions and significantly reduced negative emotions. There was no significant difference in the recovery effect of positive emotions among the four plant community types, but there was a significant difference in the recovery effect of negative emotions. The effect of tree-shrub-grass composite woodland on the negative emotion recovery effect is the best; the EEG results found that the alpha wave amplitude induced by the tree-shrub-grass composite woodland was significantly higher than that of the other three groups of plant communities, and the EEG and behavioral results were consistent. The results show that the tree-shrub-grass composite woodland has the best restoration effect and has stronger planning and design significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Jun Fu
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fei Gao
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bo Dong
- School of Education, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xi Lin Chen
- Suqian High Speed Railway Construction and Development Co., Ltd., Suqian, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Xu
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhi Yu Yang
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Liu
- School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Chang WY, Wang X, Guo DS, Nguyen LHP, Tran NH, Yang SJ, Lin HZ, Wu HC, Huang CF. Explore the effects of forest travel activities on university students' stress affection. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1240499. [PMID: 38268801 PMCID: PMC10806104 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1240499] [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: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aims to explore the effects of forest travel activities on university students' stress affection. Forty volunteer university students participated in this study. All participants were asked to complete physiological (Heart Rate Variability) and psychological (Brief Profile of Mood State and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory) tests before and after the travel activities. The results reported that students' heart rates were significantly lower after the forest travel activities than before. All domains of negative mood and anxiety decreased from the pre-test to the post-test. This study found that university students could feel less stressed if they went on forest travel activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Yin Chang
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fujian, China
| | - Xin Wang
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fujian, China
| | - De-Sheng Guo
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fujian, China
| | - Lam-Huu-Phuoc Nguyen
- Graduate Institute of Science Education and Environmental Education, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ngoc-Huy Tran
- Graduate Institute of Science Education and Environmental Education, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Shuai-Jie Yang
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fujian, China
| | - Hui-Zhong Lin
- Department of Cardiology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hsiu-Chen Wu
- Department of Food and Beverage Management, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Fei Huang
- Graduate Institute of Science Education and Environmental Education, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Oomen-Welke K, Hilbich T, Schlachter E, Müller A, Anton A, Huber R. Spending time in the forest or the field: qualitative semi-structured interviews in a randomized controlled cross-over trial with highly sensitive persons. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1207627. [PMID: 38022960 PMCID: PMC10661274 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1207627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The effects of spending time in forests have been subject to investigations in various countries around the world. Qualitative comparisons have been rarely done so far. Methods Sixteen healthy highly sensitive persons (SV12 score ≥ 18) aged between 18 and 70 years were randomly assigned to groups spending 1 h in the forest and in the field at intervals of one week. Semi-structured interviews were conducted after each intervention and analyzed using a mixed-methods approach of content analysis and grounded theory. Results Both natural environments induced feelings of inner calmness, inner cleansing, joy, freedom, connectedness, strengthening qualities, and heightened body awareness. The forest environment additionally offered emotional shelter, and showed advantages in promoting inner strength and self-concentration. Discussion People with previous negative experiences in the forest may feel safer in fields because of the wider view and better overview. Important preconditions are enough time and the absence of a judgmental authority. The two environments induced in part different but also similar emotions which might be useful to promote psychological well-being differentially.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Oomen-Welke
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tina Hilbich
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Evelyn Schlachter
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Müller
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Anton
- Institute for Frontier Areas of Psychology and Mental Health (IGPP), Freiburg, Germany
| | - Roman Huber
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Li Q, Guo Z, Hu F, Xiao M, Zhang Q, Wen J, Ying T, Zheng D, Wang Y, Yang S, Hou H. Tourism experiences reduce the risk of cognitive impairment in the Chinese older adult: a prospective cohort study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1271319. [PMID: 37942247 PMCID: PMC10629014 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1271319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Given the etiological complexity of cognitive impairment, no effective cure currently exists for precise treatment of dementia. Although scholars have noted tourism's potential role in managing cognitive impairment and mild dementia, more robust empirical investigation is needed in this area. This study aimed to examine the associations between tourism and cognitive impairment and dementia in older Chinese adults. Method From a nationwide community-based cohort, 6,717 individuals aged ≥60 were recruited from 2011 to 2014, of whom 669 (9.96%) had had at least one tourism experience in the 2 years prior to enrollment. All the participants were then prospectively followed up until 2018. The association between tourism and cognitive impairment was examined by the Cox proportional hazards regression model. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to evaluate the effect of tourism experience on cognitive impairment and dementia. Results A total of 1,416 individuals were newly diagnosed with cognitive impairment and 139 individuals with dementia onset during follow-up. The incidence of cognitive impairment was significantly lower among participants with tourism experiences (316.94 per 10,000 person-years) than those without such experiences (552.38 per 10,000 person-years). Cox regression showed that tourism decreased the risk of cognitive impairment (aHR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.41-0.62) when adjusted for behavioral covariates and characteristics. Compared with participants without tourism experiences, those with 1, 2, and ≥3 tourism experiences had a lower risk of cognitive impairment with the aHRs of 0.72 (95% CI: 0.52-0.99), 0.65 (0.42-1.01), and 0.68 (0.44-0.98), respectively. Tourism experiences also reduced participants' risk of dementia (aHR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.19-0.89). Conclusion Our findings demonstrated associations between tourism and reduced risks of cognitive impairment and dementia in older Chinese adults. Thus, tourism could serve as a novel approach to dementia prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Li
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Zheng Guo
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Fangli Hu
- Centre for Precision Health, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Mengfei Xiao
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Taian, China
| | - Jun Wen
- School of Business and Law, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Tianyu Ying
- Department of Tourism and Hotel Management, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Danni Zheng
- Department of Tourism, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Youxin Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Song Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, The Affiliated Taian City Central Hospital of Qingdao University, Taian, China
| | - Haifeng Hou
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
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Owens M, Bunce H. The effect of brief exposure to virtual nature on mental wellbeing in adolescents. Sci Rep 2023; 13:17769. [PMID: 37853074 PMCID: PMC10584913 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44717-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescence is a time of multiple transitions and a vulnerability period for mental health difficulties. There are many barriers to the treatment of mental health conditions which is one reason for developing alternatives to help improve efficacy in treatment and prevention. One approach is to use nature-based interventions (NBIs) to improve mental wellbeing. In this experimental proof-of-principle intervention study, we randomly allocated a sample of adolescents to brief exposure (6 min) to either a virtual woodland nature video or a busy train journey and tested the effect on mental wellbeing. Results showed beneficial effects in the nature condition on several self-reported outcomes including stress, relaxation, affect, mood, attention, nature connection and nature spirituality. The intervention was mainly acceptable and feasible to do suggesting that overall brief virtual nature interventions may have utility in a range of mental health contexts for adolescents including as self-help universal or targeted prevention strategies, adjunct to psychological therapy and as preparation for more intensive NBIs. Additionally, brief virtual nature interventions support accessibility for those who may be limited on time, unable to access real-life nature or who may be more biophobic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Owens
- Department of Psychology, The Mood Disorders Centre, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4QQ, UK.
- The ROWAN Group, Exeter, UK.
| | - Hannah Bunce
- The ROWAN Group, Exeter, UK
- Somerset Foundation Trust NHS, Taunton, TA1 5DA, UK
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LoTemplio S, Bettmann JE, Scott E, Blumenthal E. Do Mental Health Changes in Nature Co-occur with Changes in Heartrate Variability and Executive Functioning? A Systematic Review. Curr Environ Health Rep 2023; 10:278-290. [PMID: 37516682 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-023-00407-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Given the global burden of mental health issues, new solutions are needed to promote mental health. Nature exposure represents a promising option to promote mental health, but the mechanisms are poorly understood. Recent frameworks have argued that changes in mental health in nature are caused by activity changes in the vagus nerve, which connects the heart and the brain, and that these changes also improve executive functioning (EF) abilities. This suggests that changes in mental health symptomology in nature should be accompanied by changes in vagus nerve activity, as well as changes in executive functioning. Yet, little work has systematically examined co-variation of these outcomes in empirical studies. The present manuscript systematically examines whether changes in mental health in nature are accompanied by changes in vagus nerve activity (approximated by heartrate variability) and changes in executive functioning. RECENT FINDINGS There is compelling evidence that spending time in nature can increase heartrate variability, improve mental health, and improve executive functioning. However, despite strong theoretical claims that these three outcomes should be linked after spending time in nature settings, few studies directly examine such co-occurrence. The study systematically examines whether studies that considered both mental health and executive functioning (n = 6) showed co-occurring effects in response to nature exposure. Similarly, the study also considers if studies examining mental health and heartrate variability (n = 6) showed similarly directional effects following nature exposure. This systematic review concludes with discussion about the limited number of studies (n =1) that include all three measures. We find mixed results of co-occurrence with these variables, suggesting that the relationship between these three constructs in nature may be more nuanced than current theory suggests. Perhaps more importantly, our results demonstrate that there is very little existing work linking changes in mental health to changes in EF and vagal tone. We conclude with justification for why it may be beneficial for researchers to include all three metrics as well as guidance on how to do so.
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Liu Z, Chen X, Cui H, Ma Y, Gao N, Li X, Meng X, Lin H, Abudou H, Guo L, Liu Q. Green space exposure on depression and anxiety outcomes: A meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116303. [PMID: 37268208 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The development of urbanization has led to emerging mental health issues. Green space was becoming increasingly important for mental health. Previous studies have demonstrated the value of green space for a variety of outcomes connected to mental health. However, uncertainty remains regarding the association between green spaces and the risk of depression and anxiety outcomes. This study aimed to integrate present evidence from observational studies to define the association of exposure to green space with depression and anxiety. METHODS A thorough electronic search of PubMed, Web of Science and Embase database was performed. We transformed the odds ratio (OR) of different green increments into per 0.1 unit increase in normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and per 10% increase in percentage of green space. Cochrane's Q and I2 statistics were used to assess study heterogeneity, and random-effects models were employed to calculate combined effect estimation OR with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Pooled analysis was completed using Stata 15.0. RESULTS According to this meta-analysis, a 10% increase in the proportion of green space was linked to a lower risk of depression (merged OR (95% CI) = 0.963 (0.948, 0.979)) and anxiety (merged OR (95% CI) = 0.938 (0.858, 1.025)) and a 0.1 unit increase in NDVI was linked to a lower risk of depression (merged OR (95% CI) = 0.931 (0.887, 0.977)). CONCLUSIONS Results of this meta-analysis supported improving green space exposure in preventing depression and anxiety. Higher green space exposure might be helpful for depression and anxiety disorders. Therefore, improving or preserving green space should be regarded as a promising intervention for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziquan Liu
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Tianjin 300140, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Tianjin 300140, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Huanhuan Cui
- Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Yuxuan Ma
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Tianjin 300140, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Ning Gao
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Xiangyan Meng
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Huishu Lin
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Tianjin 300140, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Halidan Abudou
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
| | - Liqiong Guo
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072, China; Tianjin Fourth Central Hospital, Tianjin 300140, China; Wenzhou Safety (Emergency) Institute, Tianjin University, Wenzhou, 325000, China.
| | - Qisijing Liu
- Research Institute of Public Health, School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300081, China.
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Yoon JI, Lim S, Kim ML, Joo J. The relationship between perceived restorativeness and place attachment for hikers at Jeju Gotjawal Provincial Park in South Korea: the moderating effect of environmental sensitivity. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1201112. [PMID: 37609498 PMCID: PMC10440692 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1201112] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Jeju Gotjawal Provincial Park provides visitors with opportunities for outdoor recreation and informs visitors of the environmental significance of the park's ecosystem. This study attempted to examine how the perceived restorativeness of park visitors influenced their place attachment. In addition, the moderating effect of environmental sensitivity on the hypothesized relationship was explored. Methods Using the purposive sampling method, 408 surveys were collected at Jeju Gotjawal Provincial Park. The hypotheses were tested by confirmatory factor analysis, path analysis, and invariance tests using Lisrel 8.70. Results The results indicated that perceived restorativeness had a positive influence on place attachment (place identity and place dependence). Further, the hypothesized relationship was stronger for the visitors with higher environmental sensitivity, compared to those with weaker environmental sensitivity. Conclusion Park managers should consider ways to increase the perceived restorativeness of visitors as they experience the natural environment at the park. Also, since environmental sensitivity played an important role in shaping the perceived restorativeness-place attachment relationship, there is a need for educational programs that can inform visitors of the significance of the natural environment to increase their affection for nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jee In Yoon
- Department of Coaching, College of Physical Education, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, South Korea
| | - Soyoun Lim
- Department of Kinesiology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, United States
| | - Mi-Lyang Kim
- Department of Sport, Leisure and Recreation, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, South Korea
| | - Jinyoung Joo
- Center for Happiness Studies, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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Antonelli M, Donelli D, Maggini V, Gallo E, Mascherini V, Firenzuoli F, Gavazzi G, Zabini F, Venturelli E, Margheritini G, Bassi I, Iseppi L, Meneguzzo F. Demographic, Psychosocial, and Lifestyle-Related Characteristics of Forest Therapy Participants in Italy: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Survey. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11111627. [PMID: 37297767 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11111627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
This research aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the key demographic, psychosocial, and lifestyle-related characteristics of forest therapy participants in Italy. A survey was conducted among 1070 adults who had engaged in standardized forest therapy experiences between June 2021 and October 2022. The findings indicate that most forest therapy participants in Italy share certain distinctive traits. They are primarily female, aged between 45 and 54 years, employed, and unmarried. Moreover, they possess a high level of education, predominantly reside in urban areas, demonstrate a strong environmental awareness, maintain a nature-oriented attitude, and typically exhibit moderate levels of trait anxiety. Additionally, they tend to be nonsmokers, possess a healthy BMI within the normal range, and consume an adequate quantity of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. However, it should be noted that their male counterparts tend to be overweight and exhibit poorer dietary habits. Irrespective of gender, approximately 40% of forest therapy participants in Italy live with a chronic disease that requires daily medicinal treatment. Subsequent research should investigate whether these characteristics hold true in different countries. Furthermore, exploring the potential effectiveness of health-promoting interventions integrated with forest therapy sessions could prove beneficial in addressing these specific issues among forest therapy participants. By doing so, such interventions have the potential to contribute significantly to public health promotion and overall community well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Antonelli
- Department of Public Health, AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Via Amendola 2, 42122 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Davide Donelli
- Division of Cardiology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Valentina Maggini
- CERFIT, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Eugenia Gallo
- CERFIT, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Vittorio Mascherini
- CERFIT, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Fabio Firenzuoli
- CERFIT, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla 3, 50134 Florence, Italy
| | - Gioele Gavazzi
- Section of Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child's Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Via di San Salvi 12, 50135 Firenze, Italy
| | - Federica Zabini
- Institute of Bioeconomy, National Research Council, Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Emanuela Venturelli
- Psychologist Group, Central Medical Commission, Italian Alpine Club, Via E. Petrella 19, 20124 Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Margheritini
- Psychologist Group, Central Medical Commission, Italian Alpine Club, Via E. Petrella 19, 20124 Milano, Italy
| | - Ivana Bassi
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Luca Iseppi
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Francesco Meneguzzo
- Institute of Bioeconomy, National Research Council, Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
- Psychologist Group, Central Medical Commission, Italian Alpine Club, Via E. Petrella 19, 20124 Milano, Italy
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Witten E, Ryynanen J, Wisdom S, Tipp C, Chan SWY. Effects of soothing images and soothing sounds on mood and well-being. BRITISH JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 62:158-179. [PMID: 36342851 DOI: 10.1111/bjc.12400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mental health problems are increasing at an alarming rate, calling for the need for more cost-effective and easily accessible interventions. Visual images and sounds depicting nature have been found to have positive effects on individuals' mood and well-being; however, the combined effects of images and sounds have been scarcely investigated. This study therefore aimed to compare the mood effects of viewing nature-related soothing images versus listening to soothing sounds versus a combination of both. METHODS In this study, 149 participants aged 18-83 years old (M = 35.88, SD = 15.63; 72.5% female, male 26.8%, .7% transgender) were randomised into three intervention conditions: images only, sounds only or combined (images and sounds). Baseline depressive and anxiety symptoms were indexed, and four outcome variables (positive affect, negative affect, serenity affect and depressive mood states) were measured pre- and post-intervention. RESULTS Findings showed that all participants, regardless of group, reported a decrease in negative affect, positive affect and depressive mood as well as an increase in serenity affect (including feelings of soothe). However, there were no group differences. Exploratory analyses found that individuals with higher levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms at baseline experienced greater reduction in negative affect and depressive mood state, as well as a larger increase in serenity affect. CONCLUSIONS These findings therefore provide preliminary evidence that, upon further research and development, images and sounds depicting nature can potentially be developed for use as an effective tool to improve mood and well-being.
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Chen R, Gao Y, Zhang R, Zhang Z, Zhang W, Meng H, Zhang T. How Does the Experience of Forest Recreation Spaces in Different Seasons Affect the Physical and Mental Recovery of Users? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2357. [PMID: 36767723 PMCID: PMC9915722 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032357] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, increasing attention has been given to the recovery effect of the forest environment on physical and mental health. Therefore, providing users with a high-quality forest landscape space is a very important research topic for forest landscape designers and forest resource managers. MAIN PURPOSE From the perspective of different seasons, this study explores the differences in landscape perceptions and physical and mental recovery of users when they experience different forest recreation spaces and the interactions between them. METHODS First, this study used virtual reality video experience and questionnaires for participants. Then, the paired-samples t test, one-way ANOVA and the independent-samples t test were used for statistical analysis. Finally, we also used structural equation models to analyze the relationship between landscape perception and recovery. MAIN RESULTS (1) The restoration effect and perception of forest recreation spaces on people are influenced by space types and seasonal factors. (2) People's restoration from forest environments is a gradual process from spatial cognition to emotional response. (3) The perception of the natural attributes and form of the recreation space plays a key role in the restorative effect of the environment to people, while the natural form is more important in spring than autumn. Based on the above conclusions, we suggest that the characteristic factors of the landscape environment and their different restoration effects for users in different dimensions should be considered when planning forest recreation space.
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Yeon PS, Kim IO, Kang SN, Lee NE, Kim GY, Min GM, Chung CY, Lee JS, Kim JG, Shin WS. Effects of Urban Forest Therapy Program on Depression Patients. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:507. [PMID: 36612825 PMCID: PMC9819035 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Depression is a common serious mental health condition that can have negative personal and social consequences, and managing it is critical for treating depression patients. Forest therapy is emerging as a promising non-pharmacological intervention to improve mental health. However, although the effectiveness of forest therapy programs using forests far from the city has been proven, it is not well known that urban forests can be easily accessed in daily life. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effects of an urban forest therapy program on depression symptoms, sleep quality, and somatization symptoms of depression patients. To evaluate this, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design was employed. A total of 47 depression patients participated in this study (22 in the urban forest therapy program group and 25 in the control group). The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15) were administered to each participant to assess the effects of the urban forest therapy program. The results of this study revealed that depression patients in the urban forest therapy program had significantly alleviated depression symptoms and improved sleep quality and somatization symptoms compared to the control group. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the possibility that the urban forest therapy program could be used as an effective non-pharmacological treatment to alleviate depression disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poung-Sik Yeon
- Department of Forest Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Ok Kim
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Si-Nae Kang
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Nee-Eun Lee
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Ga-Yeon Kim
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyeong-Min Min
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Chung-Yeub Chung
- Gwanghwamun Forest Psychiatric Clinic, Seoul 03156, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Sok Lee
- Gwanghwamun Forest Psychiatric Clinic, Seoul 03156, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Gun Kim
- Korea Forest Therapy Forum Incorporated Association, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
| | - Won-Sop Shin
- Department of Forest Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Republic of Korea
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17
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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.
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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:
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Oomen-Welke K, Schlachter E, Hilbich T, Naumann J, Müller A, Hinterberger T, Huber R. Spending Time in the Forest or the Field: Investigations on Stress Perception and Psychological Well-Being-A Randomized Cross-Over Trial in Highly Sensitive Persons. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15322. [PMID: 36430041 PMCID: PMC9690301 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215322] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Research suggests that stays in a forest promote relaxation and reduce stress compared to spending time in a city. The aim of this study was to compare stays in a forest with another natural environment, a cultivated field. Healthy, highly sensitive persons (HSP, SV12 score > 18) aged between 18 and 70 years spent one hour in the forest and in the field at intervals of one week. The primary outcome was measured using the Change in Subjective Self-Perception (CSP-14) questionnaire. Secondary outcomes were measured using the Profile Of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire and by analyzing salivary cortisol. We randomized 43 participants. Thirty-nine were allocated and included in the intention-to-treat analysis (90% female, mean age 45 years). CSP-14 in part showed significant differences-total score (p = 0.054, Cohen's d = 0.319), item "integration" (p = 0.028, Cohen's d = 0.365)-favoring the effects of the forest. These effects were more pronounced in summer (August). In October, during rainfall, we detected no relevant differences. POMS only showed a significant difference in the subcategory "depression/anxiety" in favor of the field. The amount of cortisol in saliva was not different between the groups. A short-term stay in a forest in summer caused a greater improvement in mood and well-being in HSP than in a field. This effect was not detectable during bad weather in the fall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Oomen-Welke
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Evelyn Schlachter
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Tina Hilbich
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Johannes Naumann
- Interdisciplinary Center for Treatment and Research in Balneology, European Institute for Physical Therapy and Balneology (EIPB), Sonnenbergstr. 35, 79117 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Alexander Müller
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Thilo Hinterberger
- Forschungsbereich Angewandte Bewusstseinswissenschaften, Abteilung für Psychosomatische Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Roman Huber
- Center for Complementary Medicine, Medical Center—University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetterstr. 55, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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Kavanaugh J, Hardison ME, Rogers HH, White C, Gross J. Assessing the Impact of a Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) Intervention on Physician/Healthcare Professional Burnout: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14505. [PMID: 36361384 PMCID: PMC9658142 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Professional healthcare worker burnout is a crisis in the United States healthcare system. This crisis can be viewed at any level, from the national to local communities, but ultimately, must be understood at the level of the individual who is caring for patients. Thus, interventions to reduce burnout symptoms must prioritize the mental health of these individuals by alleviating some of the symptoms of depression, grief, and anxiety that accompany burnout. The practice of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) is a specific evidence-based practice which research has shown can improve an individual's mental health and, when performed in a group, can support a sense of social connection. We investigated the impact of a three-hour, guided Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) nature-based intervention on burnout symptoms among physicians and other healthcare workers by using a randomized, controlled trial. The Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) and Mini-Z assessments were used to collect baseline burnout scores and participants were randomized into the intervention group, which completed the assessment again after the Shinrin-Yoku walk, or into a control group, which completed the assessments again after a day off from any clinical duties. A total of 34 participants were enrolled in the intervention group and a total of 22 participants were enrolled in the control group. Ultimately, no statistically significant differences were detected between the pre-test and post-test scores for the intervention group or between the post-test scores of the intervention group compared to the control group. However, the subjective responses collected from participants after participating in the Shinrin-Yoku walk overwhelmingly reported decreased feelings of stress and increased mental wellbeing. This raises important questions about the difference between symptoms of burnout and other aspects of mental health, as well as the limitations of a one-time nature-based intervention on levels of chronic burnout symptoms. Thus, further research on the effects of engaging healthcare providers in an ongoing practice of Shinrin-Yoku is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Kavanaugh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of New Mexico Hospital, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
| | - Mark E. Hardison
- Occupational Therapy Graduate Program, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Heidi Honegger Rogers
- College of Nursing, University of New Mexico College of Nursing, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Crystal White
- Occupational Therapy Graduate Program, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Jessica Gross
- Clinical and Translational Science Center, University of New Mexico Health Science Center, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
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20
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Kotera Y, Young H, Maybury S, Aledeh M. Mediation of Self-Compassion on Pathways from Stress to Psychopathologies among Japanese Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191912423. [PMID: 36231737 PMCID: PMC9566548 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
As awareness of mental health increases worldwide, how to improve mental health has begun to be discussed in many countries. Stress is known to cause diverse physical and mental health problems, including psychopathologies. On the other hand, our previous studies identified that self-compassion, kindness and understanding towards oneself are key components for good mental health in many populations, including Japanese workers. The government reports that Japanese workers suffer from high rates of mental health problems. However, the mechanism of how self-compassion helps their mental health remains to be evaluated. Accordingly, this study aimed to elucidate how self-compassion intervenes in pathways from stress to psychopathologies, namely depression and anxiety. One hundred and sixty-five Japanese workers completed an online survey regarding self-compassion, depression, anxiety and stress. Correlation and path analyses were conducted. These four variables were significantly inter-related. While self-compassion mediated the pathway from stress to depression, it did not mediate the pathway from stress to anxiety. These exploratory insights assist in understanding the mechanism of how self-compassion improves mental health and inform effective methods to implement self-compassion interventions to the Japanese workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Kotera
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Holly Young
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | - Sarah Maybury
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | - Muhammad Aledeh
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
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21
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Evans S, Livingstone A, Dodds M, Kotte D, Geertsema M, O’Shea M. Exploring Forest Therapy as an Adjunct to Treatment as Usual within a Community Health Counselling Service. JOURNAL OF SPIRITUALITY IN MENTAL HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19349637.2022.2106608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Subhadra Evans
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | | | - Michael Dodds
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Deiter Kotte
- International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance, Australia
| | | | - Melissa O’Shea
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
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22
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Perceived Benefits and Forest Tourists Consumption Intention: Environmental Protection Attitude and Resource Utilization Attitude as Mediators. FORESTS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/f13050812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Establishing a relationship model between environmental protection and resource utilization attitude and consumption intention is the key to promoting the sustainable development of forest tourism. From the standpoint of the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) framework, the purpose of this study is to explore the complex causal relationships between perceived benefits, attitudes toward environmental protection, resource utilization attitudes, and consumption intentions in the context of forest tourism. The research data have been collected using a questionnaire survey of 436 tourists at Siming Mountain in the suburbs of Ningbo city, China. Furthermore, it is analyzed by structural equation modeling. The results indicate a positive correlation between the perceived benefits and tourists’ consumption intention that is mediated by the tourists’ attitude toward resource utilization. Although the independent mediating effect of environmental protection attitude is not supported in this study, both attitudes have played a chain-mediating role between perceived benefit and consumption intention. This study contributes to the existing knowledge by measuring the impact of perceived benefits and environmental attitudes of forest tourists on consumption intentions.
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23
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Ross AM, Jones RJF. Simulated Forest Immersion Therapy: Methods Development. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095373. [PMID: 35564767 PMCID: PMC9105281 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing, may provide relief from chronic and breakthrough pain in patients with axial spondyloarthritis and improve immune function through increasing NK cell numbers and activity and their downstream effectors, perforin and granulysin, after chemo- or radiation therapy in breast and prostate cancer patients. The aim of this paper is to describe the study protocol for a simulated forest immersion therapy using virtual reality and atomized phytoncides, volatile organic compounds found in forested areas designed to effect positive change for these two patient populations. The setting, including the room set up and samples with inclusion/exclusion specific to this type of intervention, is outlined. Measures and calibration procedures pertinent to determining the feasibility of simulated forest immersion therapy are presented and include: ambient and surface room temperatures and relative humidity in real time, ambient ultrafine particulate matter, ambient droplet measurement that coincides with volatile organic compounds, specific phytoncides, and virtual reality and atomization of phytoncide set up. Particular lessons learned while training and setting up the equipment are presented. Simulated forest immersion therapy is possible with attention to detail during this early phase when development of methods, equipment testing, and feasibility in deploying the intervention become operational. The expected outcome of the development of the methods for this study is the creation of a standardized approach to simulating forest therapy in a controlled laboratory space.
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Effects of Forest-Based Interventions on Mental Health: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084884. [PMID: 35457755 PMCID: PMC9031621 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Forest-based interventions are a promising alternative therapy for enhancing mental health. The current study investigated the effects of forest therapy on anxiety, depression, and negative and positive mental condition through a meta-analysis of recent randomized controlled trials, using the PRISMA guideline. Of 825 articles retrieved from databases including PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and PsycINFO, 6 met the inclusion criteria. The results of this study showed that forest-based interventions improved the mental health of participants in the intervention groups when compared to those in the control groups. Thirty-four outcome variables were analyzed from six studies. The overall effect size of the forest therapy programs was 1.25 (95% CI = 0.93−1.57, p < 0.001), which was large and statistically significant. These findings imply that forest-based interventions can improve mental health as a nonpharmacological intervention. This study is significant in that it is a meta-analysis of mental health that included only high-quality domestic and international RCTs. In future studies, more RCTs related to various forest interventions and studies involving many participants should be undertaken, which will complement heterogeneity in future meta-analysis studies.
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25
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Owens M, Bunce HLI. The Potential for Outdoor Nature-Based Interventions in the Treatment and Prevention of Depression. Front Psychol 2022; 13:740210. [PMID: 35401311 PMCID: PMC8984301 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.740210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing interest in nature-based interventions (NBI) to improve human health and wellbeing. An important nascent area is exploring the potential of outdoor therapies to treat and prevent common mental health problems like depression. In this conceptual analysis on the nature-depression nexus, we distil some of the main issues for consideration when NBIs for depression are being developed. We argue that understanding the mechanisms, or 'active ingredients' in NBIs is crucial to understand what works and for whom. Successfully identifying modifiable mediating intervention targets will pave the way for interventions with increased efficacy. We highlight a non-exhaustive list of five clinically relevant putative, candidate mechanisms which may underly the beneficial effects of NBIs on depression: stress, rumination, mindfulness, sleep and exercise. We also make the case that when developing NBIs it is important to not neglect young people, explore personalised approaches and focus on both treatment and prevention approaches. To achieve these aims methodologically rigorous programmes of clinical research are needed that include well-powered and controlled experimental designs including randomised controlled trials, qualitative research, longitudinal studies and large prospective cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Owens
- Department of Psychology, The Mood Disorders Centre, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah L. I. Bunce
- CEDAR, University of Exeter and Somerset Foundation Trust NHS, Taunton, United Kingdom
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Kim Y, Choi Y, Kim H. Positive Effects on Emotional Stress and Sleep Quality of Forest Healing Program for Exhausted Medical Workers during the COVID-19 Outbreak. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19053130. [PMID: 35270820 PMCID: PMC8910265 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19053130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This study targeted medical workers, who are currently being subjected to an excessive workload and emotional stress during the COVID-19 outbreak. Various treatment programs, such as a relaxation program to relieve stress, a walk in the forest, and woodworking were provided to the participants as forest healing therapies. We enrolled 13 medical workers (11 females, 2 males). Before and after forest healing therapy, stress and sleep-related questionnaires and levels of salivary cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), and melatonin were measured and compared. The improvement of the perceived stress scale and the decrease of DHEA-S, a stress index, showed statistically significant results. However, although this study was conducted with a small number of participants and has a limitation in that the therapy occurred over a short period of only 1 night and 2 days, the trend of supporting results remains positive. As such, the authors propose forest healing therapy as one intervention to relieve the job stress for this group of workers
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunsoo Kim
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwandong University, Gangneung 25601, Korea;
| | - Yoonhee Choi
- The Convergence Institute of Healthcare and Medical Science, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwandong University, Incheon 22711, Korea;
| | - Hyeyun Kim
- The Convergence Institute of Healthcare and Medical Science, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwandong University, Incheon 22711, Korea;
- Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwandong University, Incheon 22711, Korea
- Correspondence:
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What Activities in Forests Are Beneficial for Human Health? A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052692. [PMID: 35270397 PMCID: PMC8909949 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, clinical trials of forest-based interventions have increased, leading to their recognition as preventive medicine. However, little is known about the differences in health effects according to the activity characteristics of interventions. This study aimed to understand the types of activities and their associated health effects to identify differences in health effects between activities. PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched, and methodological quality was assessed using Cochrane ROB2. A total of 32 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) met the eligibility criteria. Health outcomes were collected from 6264 participants aged 6–98 years, and the sample size was 12–585. The Interventions were walking (n = 21), staying (n = 7), exercise (n = 4), indirect exposure (n = 4), and the activity time was between 10 and 240 min. Overall, walking showed consistent positive health effects, and there were differences in effects on anxiety and depression, cognitive function, stress hormone, and inflammation according to the activity. However, most of the included studies had a high risk of bias, and interventions were limited to specific activities, durations, and frequencies. Although a few limitations remain, the findings in this study are of great significance in providing the basis for the design of forest-based interventions.
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Asri AK, Tsai HJ, Pan WC, Guo YL, Yu CP, Wu CS, Su HJ, Lung SCC, Wu CD, Spengler JD. Exploring the Potential Relationship Between Global Greenness and DALY Loss Due to Depressive Disorders. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:919892. [PMID: 35836657 PMCID: PMC9273782 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.919892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prior studies have shown that greenness can reduce the burden of depressive disorders. However, most were focused on local-scale analyses while limited evaluated globally. We aimed to investigate the association between greenness and the burden of depressive disorders using data from 183 countries worldwide. METHODS We used the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) to estimate greenness. Country-level disability-adjusted life year (DALY) loss due to depressive disorders was used to represent depressive disorder burdens. A generalized linear mixed model was applied to assess the relationship between greenness and depressive disorders after controlling for covariates. Stratified analyses were conducted to determine the effects of greenness across several socio-demographic levels. RESULTS The findings showed a significant negative association between greenness and the health burden of depressive disorders with a coefficient of -0.196 (95% CI: -0.356, -0.035) in the DALY changes per interquartile unit increment of NDVI. The stratified analyses suggested beneficial effects of greenness on depressive disorders across sex, various age groups especially for those aged <49 years, with low-income and/or those living in highly urbanized countries. CONCLUSIONS Our study noted that greenness exposure was significant negative association with the burden of depressive disorders. The findings should be viewed as recommendations for relevant authorities in supporting environmental greenness enhancement to reduce the mental burdens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hui-Ju Tsai
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chi Pan
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yue Leon Guo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, National Taiwan University (NTU) and NTU Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Pin Yu
- School of Forestry and Resource Conservation, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Shin Wu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Huey-Jen Su
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chun Candice Lung
- Research Center for Environmental Changes, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Atmospheric Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Da Wu
- Department of Geomatics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan.,National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan
| | - John D Spengler
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
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Li Q. Effects of forest environment (Shinrin-yoku/Forest bathing) on health promotion and disease prevention -the Establishment of "Forest Medicine". Environ Health Prev Med 2022; 27:43. [PMID: 36328581 PMCID: PMC9665958 DOI: 10.1265/ehpm.22-00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans have enjoyed forest environments for ages because of the quiet atmosphere, beautiful scenery, mild climate, pleasant aromas, and fresh, clean air. In Japan, since 2004, serial studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of forest environments (Forest bathing/Shinrin-yoku) on human health. My research team has established a new medical science called Forest Medicine. The Forest Medicine is a new interdisciplinary science, belonging to the categories of alternative medicine, environmental medicine and preventive medicine, which studies the effects of forest environments (Forest bathing/Shinrin-yoku) on human health. It has been reported that Forest bathing/Shinrin-yoku has the following beneficial effects on human health:1 Shinrin-yoku increases human natural killer (NK) activity, the number of NK cells, and the intracellular levels of anti-cancer proteins, suggesting a preventive effect on cancers. 2 Shinrin-yoku reduces blood pressure and heart rate showing preventive effect on hypertension and heart diseases. 3 Shinrin-yoku reduces stress hormones, such as urinary adrenaline and noradrenaline and salivary/serum cortisol contributing to stress management. 4 Shinrin-yoku increases the activity of parasympathetic nerves and reduces the activity of sympathetic nerves to stabilize the balance of autonomic nervous system. 5 Shinrin-yoku improve sleep. 6 Shinrin-yoku increases the levels of serum adiponectin and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. 7 In the Profile of Mood States (POMS) test, Shinrin-yoku reduces the scores for anxiety, depression, anger, fatigue, and confusion, and increases the score for vigor, showing preventive effects on depression. 8 Shinrin-yoku may apply to rehabilitation medicine 9 Shinrin-yoku in city parks also has benefits on human health. 10 Shinrin-yoku may have preventive effect on COVID-19 by boosting immune function and by reducing mental stress.Taken together, these findings suggest that Shinrin-yoku may have potential preventive effects on non-communicable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
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Evaluating In Silico the Potential Health and Environmental Benefits of Houseplant Volatile Organic Compounds for an Emerging 'Indoor Forest Bathing' Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010273. [PMID: 35010532 PMCID: PMC8751036 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The practice of spending time in green areas to gain the health benefits provided by trees is well known, especially in Asia, as ‘forest bathing’, and the consequent protective and experimentally detectable effects on the human body have been linked to the biogenic volatile organic compounds released by plants. Houseplants are common in houses over the globe and are particularly appreciated for aesthetic reasons as well for their ability to purify air from some environmental volatile pollutants indoors. However, to the best of our knowledge, no attempt has been made to describe the health benefits achievable from houseplants thanks to the biogenic volatile organic compounds released, especially during the day, from some of them. Therefore, we performed the present study, based on both a literature analysis and in silico studies, to investigate whether the volatile compounds and aerosol constituents emitted by some of the most common houseplants (such as peace lily plant, Spathiphyllum wallisii, and iron plant, Aspidistra eliator) could be exploited in ‘indoor forest bathing’ approaches, as proposed here for the first time not only in private houses but also public spaces, such as offices, hospitals, and schools. By using molecular docking (MD) and other in silico methodologies for estimating vapor pressures and chemico-physical/pharmacokinetic properties prediction, we found that β-costol is an organic compound, emitted in appreciable amounts by the houseplant Spathiphyllum wallisii, endowed with potential antiviral properties as emerged by our MD calculations in a SARS-CoV-2 Mpro (main protease) inhibition study, together with sesquirosefuran. Our studies suggest that the anti-COVID-19 potential of these houseplant-emitted compounds is comparable or even higher than known Mpro inhibitors, such as eugenol, and sustain the utility of houseplants as indoor biogenic volatile organic compound emitters for immunity boosting and health protection.
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31
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Yeon PS, Jeon JY, Jung MS, Min GM, Kim GY, Han KM, Shin MJ, Jo SH, Kim JG, Shin WS. Effect of Forest Therapy on Depression and Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312685. [PMID: 34886407 PMCID: PMC8657257 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to summarize the effects of forest therapy on depression and anxiety using data obtained from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-experimental studies. We searched SCOPUS, PubMed, MEDLINE(EBSCO), Web of science, Embase, Korean Studies Information Service System, Research Information Sharing Service, and DBpia to identify relevant studies published from January 1990 to December 2020 and identified 20 relevant studies for the synthesis. The methodological quality of eligible primary studies was assessed by ROB 2.0 and ROBINS-I. Most primary studies were conducted in the Republic of Korea except for one study in Poland. Overall, forest therapy significantly improved depression (Hedges’s g = 1.133; 95% confidence interval (CI): −1.491 to −0.775) and anxiety (Hedges’s g = 1.715; 95% CI: −2.519 to −0.912). The quality assessment resulted in five RCTs that raised potential concerns in three and high risk in two. Fifteen quasi-experimental studies raised high for nine quasi-experimental studies and moderate for six studies. In conclusion, forest therapy is preventive management and non-pharmacologic treatment to improve depression and anxiety. However, the included studies lacked methodological rigor and required more comprehensive geographic application. Future research needs to determine optimal forest characteristics and systematic activities that can maximize the improvement of depression and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poung-Sik Yeon
- Department of Forest Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea;
| | - Jin-Young Jeon
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.-Y.J.); (M.-S.J.); (G.-M.M.); (G.-Y.K.); (K.-M.H.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Myeong-Seo Jung
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.-Y.J.); (M.-S.J.); (G.-M.M.); (G.-Y.K.); (K.-M.H.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Gyeong-Min Min
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.-Y.J.); (M.-S.J.); (G.-M.M.); (G.-Y.K.); (K.-M.H.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Ga-Yeon Kim
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.-Y.J.); (M.-S.J.); (G.-M.M.); (G.-Y.K.); (K.-M.H.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Kyung-Mi Han
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.-Y.J.); (M.-S.J.); (G.-M.M.); (G.-Y.K.); (K.-M.H.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Min-Ja Shin
- Graduated Department of Forest Therapy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea; (J.-Y.J.); (M.-S.J.); (G.-M.M.); (G.-Y.K.); (K.-M.H.); (M.-J.S.)
| | - Seong-Hee Jo
- National Center for Forest Therapy, Yeongju 36043, Korea;
| | - Jin-Gun Kim
- Korea Forest Therapy Forum Incorporated Association, Cheongju 28644, Korea
- Correspondence: (J.-G.K.); (W.-S.S.); Tel.: +82-10-6480-4171 (J.-G.K.); +82-43-261-2536 (W.-S.S.)
| | - Won-Sop Shin
- Department of Forest Sciences, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea;
- Correspondence: (J.-G.K.); (W.-S.S.); Tel.: +82-10-6480-4171 (J.-G.K.); +82-43-261-2536 (W.-S.S.)
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Coventry PA, Brown J, Pervin J, Brabyn S, Pateman R, Breedvelt J, Gilbody S, Stancliffe R, McEachan R, White P. Nature-based outdoor activities for mental and physical health: Systematic review and meta-analysis. SSM Popul Health 2021; 16:100934. [PMID: 34646931 PMCID: PMC8498096 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental health problems are associated with lower quality of life, increased unscheduled care, high economic and social cost, and increased mortality. Nature-based interventions (NBIs) that support people to engage with nature in a structured way are asset-based solutions to improve mental health for community based adults. However, it is unclear which NBIs are most effective, or what format and dose is most efficacious. We systematically reviewed the controlled and uncontrolled evidence for outdoor NBIs. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42020163103). Studies that included adults (aged ≥18 years) in community-based settings with or without mental and/or physical health problems were eligible for inclusion. Eligible interventions were structured outdoor activities in green and/or blue space for health and wellbeing. We searched ASSIA, CENTRAL, Embase, Greenfile, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science in October 2019; the search was updated in September 2020. We screened 14,321 records and included 50 studies. Sixteen studies were randomised controlled trials (RCTs); 18 were controlled studies; and 16 were uncontrolled before and after studies. Risk of bias for RCTs was low to moderate; and moderate to high for controlled and uncontrolled studies. Random effects meta-analysis of RCTs showed that NBIs were effective for improving depressive mood -0.64 (95% CI: 1.05 to -0.23), reducing anxiety -0.94 (95% CI: 0.94 to -0.01), improving positive affect 0.95 (95% CI: 0.59 to 1.31), and reducing negative affect -0.52 (95% CI: 0.77 to -0.26). Results from controlled and uncontrolled studies largely reflected findings from RCTs. There was less evidence that NBIs improved physical health. The most effective interventions were offered for between 8 and 12 weeks, and the optimal dose ranged from 20 to 90 min. NBIs, specifically gardening, green exercise and nature-based therapy, are effective for improving mental health outcomes in adults, including those with pre-existing mental health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. Coventry
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- York Environmental Sustainability Institute, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
| | | | - Jodi Pervin
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Sally Brabyn
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Rachel Pateman
- Stockholm Environment Institute, Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
| | | | - Simon Gilbody
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
- Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | | | | | - PiranC.L. White
- York Environmental Sustainability Institute, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
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Sundara Rajoo K, Singh Karam D, Abdu A, Rosli Z, James Gerusu G. Addressing psychosocial issues caused by the COVID-19 lockdown: Can urban greeneries help? URBAN FORESTRY & URBAN GREENING 2021; 65:127340. [PMID: 34512230 PMCID: PMC8423708 DOI: 10.1016/j.ufug.2021.127340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected over 200 countries, forcing governments to impose lockdowns to contain the spread of the disease. Although effective in reducing infection rates, the lockdowns have also resulted in a severe negative impact on mental health throughout the world; Setting the foundation for mental illnesses to become the next "silent" pandemic. This study attempts to determine a self-care method of ensuring mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially for those living under lockdown. We evaluated the potential of physical exercise (in a nature setting) and nature therapy in improving mental wellbeing, among young adults with either stress, anxiety or depression symptoms. The study involved thirty subjects, who were equally divided into a nature-exercise group and a nature therapy group. The participants were briefed on the activities that they were to perform on a daily basis, and both groups performed their assigned activities concurrently for one week (27th April 2020 to 3rd May 2020) at urban greeneries accessible to them (rooftop parks, neighbourhood parks, home gardens). We used the depression, anxiety and stress scale - 21 items (DASS-21) to evaluate the mental health status of participants, once before beginning the study (baseline readings) and once at the end of the study (after a week of nature-exercise/nature therapy). There was a statistically significant reduction in stress, anxiety and depression symptoms for both the nature-exercise and nature therapy groups. However, when evaluating the effectiveness of exercise and nature therapy in treating stress, anxiety and depression symptoms on a case-by-case basis, it was discovered that nature therapy was more effective in treating mental health issues. Hence, nature therapy has the potential to be a form of preventive medicine, namely in preserving mental health during the COVID-19 crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keeren Sundara Rajoo
- Department of Forestry Science, Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Nyabau Road, 97008, Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Daljit Singh Karam
- Department of Land Management, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Arifin Abdu
- Department of Forestry Science and Biodiversity, Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Zamri Rosli
- Department of Forestry Science, Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Nyabau Road, 97008, Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Geoffery James Gerusu
- Department of Forestry Science, Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Nyabau Road, 97008, Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
- Institut Ekosains Borneo, Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Campus, Nyabau Road, 97008, Bintulu, Sarawak, Malaysia
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Park S, Kim S, Kim G, Choi Y, Kim E, Paek D. Evidence-Based Status of Forest Healing Program in South Korea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910368. [PMID: 34639668 PMCID: PMC8508093 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Various effects of forest healing on health have been reported, but a certification system to assess the effectiveness of forest healing programs does not exist. In this study, a systematic review (SR) on the "health benefits of forests" and "meta-analysis of forest therapy" was conducted after analyzing the status and level of evidence of 75 forest healing programs that were conducted post-certification in South Korea. The SR for "health benefits of forests" distinguished between activities and time, resulting in 90.9% of walking activities for more than an hour under psychological health, and 100.0% of exercise activities for less than an hour under physiological health. However, the effect of indirect activities performed for more than an hour was unknown. Thus, we confirmed that many indoor activities in the field had low effect size or no established basis regarding the feasibility of its operation. The SR on "meta-analysis of forest therapy" to check whether the program was effective. The highest number of healing effects were obtained for blood pressure (32), followed by psychological depression (24). The findings of this can serve as baseline data to facilitate future development and dissemination of evidence-based forest healing programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Park
- Forest Policy and Economics Department, Forest Welfare Division, National Institute of Forest Science, Seoul 02455, Korea; (S.P.); (S.K.); (G.K.); (Y.C.); (E.K.)
| | - Soojin Kim
- Forest Policy and Economics Department, Forest Welfare Division, National Institute of Forest Science, Seoul 02455, Korea; (S.P.); (S.K.); (G.K.); (Y.C.); (E.K.)
| | - Geonwoo Kim
- Forest Policy and Economics Department, Forest Welfare Division, National Institute of Forest Science, Seoul 02455, Korea; (S.P.); (S.K.); (G.K.); (Y.C.); (E.K.)
| | - Yeji Choi
- Forest Policy and Economics Department, Forest Welfare Division, National Institute of Forest Science, Seoul 02455, Korea; (S.P.); (S.K.); (G.K.); (Y.C.); (E.K.)
| | - Eunsoo Kim
- Forest Policy and Economics Department, Forest Welfare Division, National Institute of Forest Science, Seoul 02455, Korea; (S.P.); (S.K.); (G.K.); (Y.C.); (E.K.)
| | - Domyung Paek
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-880-2825
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35
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A Qualitative Study Comparing Mindfulness and Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing): Practitioners’ Perspectives. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13126761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The boundary between mindfulness and forest bathing, two conceptually related therapies, is unclear. Accordingly, this study reports the strengths and challenges, similarities and differences, and barriers and facilitators for both. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven trained and experienced practitioners of both mindfulness and forest bathing. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed four main themes: (i) differences between the approaches; (ii) the benefits of forest bathing; (iii) biophilia through forest bathing; and (iv) inward versus outward attentional focus as a distinction between the approaches. Both practices were found to benefit well-being, but practitioners revealed key barriers to mindfulness. For vulnerable groups experiencing mental health challenges or difficulties achieving a meditative state, mindfulness may introduce well-being risks. By offering a gentler, more intuitive approach that encourages outward attentional focus, forest bathing was found to overcome this barrier. Forest bathing is suitable for all groups, but adaptations are recommended for those expressing fear or discomfort in forested environments. The findings inform how to position both approaches in practice, as a first step towards social prescribing recommendations. Wider implications concern forest bathing’s potential to impact environmental well-being. Future research must garner comparative data, involve young people, and explore the feasibility of a forest bathing social prescription.
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Macháčková K, Dudík R, Zelený J, Kolářová D, Vinš Z, Riedl M. Forest Manners Exchange: Forest as a Place to Remedy Risky Behaviour of Adolescents: Mixed Methods Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115725. [PMID: 34073575 PMCID: PMC8199475 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
This paper evaluates the impact of the forest environment on aggressive manifestations in adolescents. A remedial educative programme was performed with 68 teenagers from institutions with substitute social care with diagnoses F 30.0 (affective disorders) and F 91.0 (family-related behavioural disorders), aged 12–16 years. Adolescents observed patterns of prosocial behaviour in forest animals (wolves, wild boars, deer, bees, ants, squirrels and birds), based on the fact that processes and interactions in nature are analogous to proceedings and bonds in human society. The methodology is based on qualitative and quantitative research. Projective tests (Rorschach Test, Hand Test, Thematic Apperception Test) were used as a diagnostic tool for aggressive manifestations before and after forest therapies based on Shinrin-yoku, wilderness therapy, observational learning and forest pedagogy. Probands underwent 16 therapies lasting for two hours each. The experimental intervention has a statistically significant effect on the decreased final values relating to psychopathology, irritability, restlessness, emotional instability, egocentrism, relativity, and negativism. Forest animals demonstrated to these adolescents ways of communication, cooperation, adaptability, and care for others, i.e., characteristics without which no community can work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Macháčková
- Department of Forestry and Wood Economics, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 6-Suchdol, 16500 Praha, Czech Republic; (R.D.); (M.R.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Roman Dudík
- Department of Forestry and Wood Economics, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 6-Suchdol, 16500 Praha, Czech Republic; (R.D.); (M.R.)
| | - Jiří Zelený
- Department of Hotel Management, Institute of Hospitality Management in Prague, Svídnická 506, 18200 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.Z.); (Z.V.)
| | - Dana Kolářová
- Department of Languages, Institute of Hospitality Management in Prague, 18200 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - Zbyněk Vinš
- Department of Hotel Management, Institute of Hospitality Management in Prague, Svídnická 506, 18200 Prague, Czech Republic; (J.Z.); (Z.V.)
| | - Marcel Riedl
- Department of Forestry and Wood Economics, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 6-Suchdol, 16500 Praha, Czech Republic; (R.D.); (M.R.)
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Forest Bathing Always Makes Sense: Blood Pressure-Lowering and Immune System-Balancing Effects in Late Spring and Winter in Central Europe. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18042067. [PMID: 33672536 PMCID: PMC7923773 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18042067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Various formats of forest bathing have been receiving increasing attention owing to their perspectives in health promotion and the treatment of chronic lifestyle diseases. The majority of field studies are still being conducted in the Far Eastern region, and they often make psychological assessments mainly in the green season. In our pretest–posttest field experiment, twelve healthy, working-age volunteers participated in a 2-h leisurely forest walking program, first in the green season (May) and then in the winter season (January), in the Mecsek Hills, next to Pécs, Hungary. Systolic blood pressure decreased after the trips both in late spring and in the winter. Based on changes in the expressions of CD69, an early activation marker, NKG2D, a major recognition receptor, perforin, granzyme B, and TIM-3, an inhibitory immune checkpoint molecule, on CD8+ cytotoxic T, NK, NKdim, NKbright, and NKT cells, we detected the stimulation of NKbright cells and activation of all examined immune cell subsets in the green season. In the winter, a slight activating and an interesting balancing effect regarding TIM-3 could be observed considering our finding that basal (pretest) TIM-3 expression by NK cells was significantly lower in the winter. Our work expands the knowledge on and potentials of forest medicine.
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Mei P, Malik V, Harper RW, Jiménez JM. Air pollution, human health and the benefits of trees: a biomolecular and physiologic perspective. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/03071375.2020.1854995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Mei
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Vaishali Malik
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Richard W. Harper
- Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Juan M. Jiménez
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, USA
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A Pragmatic Controlled Trial of Forest Bathing Compared with Compassionate Mind Training in the UK: Impacts on Self-Reported Wellbeing and Heart Rate Variability. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13031380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Forest Bathing, where individuals use mindfulness to engage with nature, has been reported to increase heart rate variability and benefit wellbeing. To date, most Forest Bathing studies have been conducted in Asia. Accordingly, this paper reports the first pragmatic controlled trial of Forest Bathing in the United Kingdom, comparing Forest Bathing with a control comprising an established wellbeing intervention also known to increase heart rate variability called Compassionate Mind Training. Sixty-one university staff and students (50 females, 11 males) were allocated to (i) Forest Bathing, (ii) Compassionate Mind Training or (iii) Forest Bathing combined with Compassionate Mind Training. Wellbeing and heart rate variability were measured at baseline, post-intervention and three-months follow-up. There were improvements in positive emotions, mood disturbance, rumination, nature connection and compassion and 57% of participants showed an increase in heart rate variability. There were no significant differences between conditions, showing that Forest Bathing had equivalence with an established wellbeing intervention. The findings will help healthcare providers and policy makers to understand the effects of Forest Bathing and implement it as a feasible social prescription to improve wellbeing. Future research needs to involve clinical populations and to assess the effects of Forest Bathing in a fully powered randomised controlled trial.
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Hörberg U, Wagman P, Gunnarsson AB. Women's lived experience of well-being in everyday life when living with a stress-related illness. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2020; 15:1754087. [PMID: 32320354 PMCID: PMC7191911 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2020.1754087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to describe how women with stress-related illness experience well-being in everyday life.Methods: The study was based on a reflective lifeworld research (RLR) approach and the methodological principles of openness, flexibility and bridling. Twelve women, aged 27-54 years, diagnosed with stress-related illness were included. Data were collected with lifeworld interviews based on photographs taken by the women relating to well-being in everyday life. The data were analysed for meaning.Results: Well-being emerged in situations where women could feel an unconditional beingness. This entails not having demands on oneself and includes some form of freedom from having to perform. The surroundings and supportive environments are important for this unconditional beingness to be present. In order to feel well-being in everyday life, the women need to balance their energy and find helpful tools that can achieve a balance in everyday life.Conclusions: Healthcare staff need to understand the importance of unconditional beingness in supportive environments for patients living with stress-related illness in order to support their health and well-being. It is also important to support patients in finding helpful tools that can aid them to achieve a balance in everyday life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrica Hörberg
- Department of Health and Caring Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Sweden
| | - Petra Wagman
- Department of Rehabilitation, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Anna Birgitta Gunnarsson
- Department of Research and Development, Region Kronoberg, Växjö, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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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).
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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.)
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Effects of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy on Mental Health: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Int J Ment Health Addict 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-020-00363-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractShinrin-yoku, immersing oneself in nature using one’s senses, has been receiving increased attention internationally. While most of the existing studies have focused on physical health, this systematic review and meta-analysis examined the mental health impacts of shinrin-yoku, using the PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO registry: BLINDED). Of 497 articles retrieved on databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Science Direct and Google Scholar, twenty met the inclusion criteria. All studies were conducted in Asia and Europe, and used a variety of different bathing approaches (e.g. breathing, walking, yoga). While noting a need for more rigorous research and extensive follow-up assessments, the findings indicate that shinrin-yoku can be effective in reducing mental health symptoms in the short term, particularly anxiety. More careful examination of shinrin-yoku practices is needed; longer follow-up with participants from a range of countries along with greater examination of potential mechanisms is needed for shinrin-yoku to be accepted into mainstream interventions.
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Yau KKY, Loke AY. Effects of forest bathing on pre-hypertensive and hypertensive adults: a review of the literature. Environ Health Prev Med 2020; 25:23. [PMID: 32571202 PMCID: PMC7310560 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-020-00856-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim in this literature review was (1) to explore the physiologically and psychologically therapeutic benefits of forest bathing on adults suffering from pre-hypertension or hypertension, and (2) to identify the type, duration, and frequency of an effective forest bathing intervention in the management of pre-hypertension and hypertension, so as to provide directions for future interventions or research. The electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PsyINFO, and the China Academic Journals (CAJ) offered through the Full-text Database (CNKI) were searched for relevant studies published from the inception of the databases to April 2019. Of the 364 articles that were identified, 14 met the criteria for inclusion in this review. The synthesis of the findings in the included studies revealed that forest bathing interventions were effective at reducing blood pressure, lowering pulse rate, increasing the power of heart rate variability (HRV), improving cardiac-pulmonary parameters, and metabolic function, inducing a positive mood, reducing anxiety levels, and improving the quality of life of pre-hypertensive or hypertensive participants. Forest walking and forest therapy programs were the two most effective forest bathing interventions. Studies reported that practicing a single forest walking or forest therapy program can produce short-term physiological and psychological benefits. It is concluded that forest bathing, particularly forest walking and therapy, has physiologically and psychologically relaxing effects on middle-aged and elderly people with pre-hypertension and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Ka-Yin Yau
- School of Nursing, Tung Wah College, 31 Wylie Road, Homantin, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Alice Yuen Loke
- school of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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Meneguzzo F, Albanese L, Bartolini G, Zabini F. Temporal and Spatial Variability of Volatile Organic Compounds in the Forest Atmosphere. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16244915. [PMID: 31817339 PMCID: PMC6950249 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16244915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The healing effects of the forest are increasingly being valued for their contribution to human psychological and physiological health, motivating further advances aimed at improving knowledge of relevant forest resources. Biogenic volatile organic compounds, emitted by the plants and accumulating in the forest atmosphere, are essential contributors to the healing effects of the forest, and represent the focus of this study. Using a photoionization detector, we investigated the high frequency variability, in time and space, of the concentration of total volatile organic compounds on a hilly site as well as along forest paths and long hiking trails in the Italian northern Apennines. The scale of concentration variability was found to be comparable to absolute concentration levels within time scales of less than one hour and spatial scales of several hundred meters. During daylight hours, on clear and calm days, the concentration peaked from noon to early afternoon, followed by early morning, with the lowest levels in the late afternoon. These results were related to meteorological variables including the atmospheric vertical stability profile. Moreover, preliminary evidence pointed to higher concentrations of volatile organic compounds in forests dominated by conifer trees in comparison to pure beech forests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Meneguzzo
- Institute for Bioeconomy, National Research Council, 10 Via Madonna del Piano, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy;
- “Fiorenzo Gei” Scientific Committee, Italian Alpine Club, 2 Via del Mezzetta, I-50135 Firenze (FI), Italy
- Correspondence: (F.M.); (F.Z.); Tel.: +39-392-985-0002 (F.M.); +39-333-379-2947 (F.Z.)
| | - Lorenzo Albanese
- Institute for Bioeconomy, National Research Council, 10 Via Madonna del Piano, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy;
| | - Giorgio Bartolini
- Laboratory of Monitoring and Environmental Modelling for the Sustainable Development (LaMMA Consortium), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy;
| | - Federica Zabini
- Institute for Bioeconomy, National Research Council, 10 Via Madonna del Piano, I-50019 Sesto Fiorentino (FI), Italy;
- Correspondence: (F.M.); (F.Z.); Tel.: +39-392-985-0002 (F.M.); +39-333-379-2947 (F.Z.)
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Wen Y, Yan Q, Pan Y, Gu X, Liu Y. Medical empirical research on forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku): a systematic review. Environ Health Prev Med 2019; 24:70. [PMID: 31787069 PMCID: PMC6886167 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-019-0822-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims This study focused on the newest evidence of the relationship between forest environmental exposure and human health and assessed the health efficacy of forest bathing on the human body as well as the methodological quality of a single study, aiming to provide scientific guidance for interdisciplinary integration of forestry and medicine. Method Through PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, 210 papers from January 1, 2015, to April 1, 2019, were retrieved, and the final 28 papers meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the study. Result The methodological quality of papers included in the study was assessed quantitatively with the Downs and Black checklist. The methodological quality of papers using randomized controlled trials is significantly higher than that of papers using non-randomized controlled trials (p < 0.05). Papers included in the study were analyzed qualitatively. The results demonstrated that forest bathing activities might have the following merits: remarkably improving cardiovascular function, hemodynamic indexes, neuroendocrine indexes, metabolic indexes, immunity and inflammatory indexes, antioxidant indexes, and electrophysiological indexes; significantly enhancing people’s emotional state, attitude, and feelings towards things, physical and psychological recovery, and adaptive behaviors; and obvious alleviation of anxiety and depression. Conclusion Forest bathing activities may significantly improve people’s physical and psychological health. In the future, medical empirical studies of forest bathing should reinforce basic studies and interdisciplinary exchange to enhance the methodological quality of papers while decreasing the risk of bias, thereby raising the grade of paper evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Wen
- College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, 1101 ZhiMin Road, Nanchang, 330045, China.,Jiangxi Academy of Forestry, 1629 FengLin Road, Nanchang, 330032, China
| | - Qi Yan
- College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, 1101 ZhiMin Road, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Yangliu Pan
- College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, 1101 ZhiMin Road, Nanchang, 330045, China
| | - Xinren Gu
- College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, 1101 ZhiMin Road, Nanchang, 330045, China.
| | - Yuanqiu Liu
- College of Forestry, Jiangxi Agricultural University, 1101 ZhiMin Road, Nanchang, 330045, China.
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