Also known as: shinrin-yoku, nature immersion, forest therapy
Latest evidence update: 2026-12-31
Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) is a structured practice of immersive nature exposure. Phytoncides released by trees boost natural killer cell activity for up to 30 days after a single session. Reduces cortisol, blood pressure, and sympathetic nervous system activity.
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In 20 out of 22 included studies, cortisol levels were significantly lower after forest bathing intervention compared with control groups or showed significant pre-post reduction within forest groups.
Forest bathing shows limited benefits on physiological outcomes including blood pressure and heart rate.
Forest bathing activities significantly improve electrophysiological indexes.
Forest therapy is associated with reduction in inflammation.
Forest bathing reduces stress levels in urban youth.