Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) on Psychological Well-being

Effects of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) on Psychological Well-being in Urban or Rural Green Space: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

This study will examine the effects of Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing) as an intervention for enhancing psychological well-being in Chinese population. The main component of Shinrin-Yoku is the use of 5 senses in various activities, which typically includes forest walking, meditation, yoga etc. While Shinrin-Yoku has been widely recognized in Japan as a means of preventative health and stress management, it is still a new concept in some countries. In the existing literature, there is increasing evidence demonstrating the efficacy of Shinrin-Yoku for improving for health promotion. However, there is very limited research examining the effectiveness of Shinrin-Yoku in different types of natural environment and the sustainability of its effects.

This study will be a pilot randomized controlled trial on the effects of Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing) as an intervention for enhancing psychological well-being in Chinese population. Prior to all study procedures, an online informed consent (with phone support) will be obtained from potential participants. Around 30 eligible participants will be randomly assigned to either the natural forest group or the urban green area group in a ratio of 1:1.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Hong Kong residents
• Aged from 18 to 65
• Cantonese language fluency
• a willingness to provide informed consent and comply with the trial protocol.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant
• Have suicidal ideation
• Using medication or psychotherapy for depression
• Experiencing Depression, Anxiety and Stress
• Having unsafe conditions and are not recommended for physical activity by physicians
• Have major psychiatric, medical or neurocognitive disorders that make participation infeasible based on the research team's judgment.