RESEARCH

Assessing the Impact of a Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) Intervention on Physician/Healthcare Professional Burnout: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

The article examines the effects of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing), a nature-based intervention, on burnout symptoms in physicians and healthcare workers. A single Shinrin-Yoku session did not significantly reduce burnout scores in physicians and healthcare workers, though subjective feedback indicated stress reduction and increased wellbeing. The study suggests further research is needed to assess the impact of ongoing Forest Therapy on chronic burnout.
Program Types: Therapeutic
Population Groups: Burnout/Workplace Stress
Setting or Context: Natural Areas/Parks/Forest
Allied Profession Intersections: Forest/Ecotherapy
Type of Activity: Forest/Natural Area Immersion
Evidence Type: Randomized Controlled Trials
Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness
Access: Free
Print Form

Summary

This article explores a study that assessed the impact of a Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) intervention on burnout symptoms among physicians and healthcare workers. The study employed a randomized, controlled trial to determine if a three-hour, guided Shinrin-Yoku session could improve mental health and alleviate burnout. Participants were divided into an intervention group that experienced a Forest Bathing walk and a control group that had a day off.

Although subjective feedback indicated decreased stress and increased mental wellbeing, the study found no statistically significant differences in burnout scores between the intervention group and the control group, or in the intervention group’s pre-test and post-test scores. The Forest Bathing walks were guided by certified Forest Therapy guides and included grounding exercises and sensory awareness. The study suggests that further research is needed to assess the effects of ongoing Forest Bathing practices on chronic burnout.

Link

Kavanaugh, J., Hardison, M. E., Rogers, H. H., White, C., & Gross, J. (2022). 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, 19(21), 14505. MDPI.

 

Other Recommended Research

Cloved Orange Pomanders

Participants create a scented decoration with cloves and oranges.

Hanging Baskets Planting

Participants mindfully pot a hanging basket.

Seed Trivia

True or false and open-ended questions about seed starting.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

Report

Contains abusive or derogatory content
Contains mature or sensitive content
Contains misleading or false information
Contains spam, fake content or potential malware
Harassment or bullying behavior

Block Member?

Please confirm you want to block this member.

You will no longer be able to:

  • See blocked member's posts
  • Mention this member in posts
  • Invite this member to groups
  • Message this member
  • Add this member as a connection

Please note: This action will also remove this member from your connections and send a report to the site admin. Please allow a few minutes for this process to complete.

Report

You have already reported this .