Forest bathing as a stress reduction method: an umbrella review

Abstract Aim Originally known as “Shinrin-yoku” (where “shinrin” means “forest” and “yoku” means “bath”), forest bathing is a Japanese technique that involves interacting with nature. Going to the forest and taking in the surroundings is the main component of this activity. Nature exposure is thought to lower stress levels and enhance health by: lowering blood pressure, lowering stress hormones, turning on the parasympathetic nervous system, and lowering sympathetic nervous system activity. The goal is to investigate how forest bathing, as a stress-reduction strategy, affects the body and mind. Methods An umbrella review was carried out. The PRISMA statement’s recommendations were followed in conducting the review. The protocol for this review was registered at PROSPERO, the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO ID: CRD42024577539). Results A total of 31 reviews were included in the umbrella review. The findings suggest that forest-based interventions act as a powerful multisystemic regulator, capable of improving cardiometabolic health, modulating the autonomic nervous system, boosting immune function and alleviating the symptoms of the most common mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression. The significant reduction in cortisol levels observed in many studies confirms that the forest environment also acts as a powerful stress modulator. Conclusion Spending time in nature and in green areas is beneficial to human systems. To develop nature-oriented therapy models and approaches that will enhance the welfare of modern people, more research on the relationship between forest bathing and clinical therapeutic effects is required.