Mindfulness and Shinrin-yoku: Potential for Physiological and Psychological Interventions During Uncertain Times
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Amber Vermeesch, Associate Professor of Nursing (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Abstract: Mindfulness and Shinrin-yoku (SY) translated as forest bathing, is potentially effective to alleviatemental health issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The purpose of this article isto provide a translational and pragmatic approach to understanding mindfulness in the context ofSY and psychological wellbeing through a rapid review of the literature. The background ofmindfulness and SY practice are discussed and the emotional, neuroendocrine, and neurobiologicalresponses are examined. Next, a rapid review of the literature examined six studies, publishedbetween 2010 and 2020 to determine what is known regarding the relationship between SY,mindfulness, and psychological wellbeing. The studies included 21–360 participants with a meanage of 20–55 years. The results demonstrated a significant positive correlation between nature,mindfulness, and measures of psychological wellbeing. During uncertain events, includingCOVID-19, weaving mindfulness with SY may be specifically important to at-risk groups, thoseexperiencing depression, loneliness, and social isolation, and at-risk populations such as collegestudents, veterans, and professionals with high levels of stress. The goal of this review is to providea thorough background and support of this cost-effective modality to promote overallpsychological wellbeing as a preventative measure to those at risk or experiencing psychologicalillnesses.
Mindfulness and Shinrin-yoku: Potential for Physiological and Psychological Interventions During Uncertain Times
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Created on 9/28/2023
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Additional Information
- Publication
- International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(24)
- Language: English
- Date: 2020
- Keywords
- mindfulness, Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing, anxiety, mental health, wellbeing