One of the most interesting findings in forest therapy research is its potential relationship with anxiety reduction.
Kotera, Richardson and Sheffield published a systematic review and meta-analysis on shinrin-yoku and nature therapy in the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction. The article reviewed 20 studies involving 2,257 participants.
The authors found that shinrin-yoku may be effective in reducing short-term mental health symptoms, particularly anxiety. They also noted that the evidence base needs stronger research designs, better reporting and more follow-up assessments.
A careful, grounded interpretation
This balance is important. The findings are positive, but they should be communicated carefully. Forest therapy is not a cure for anxiety. It is a supportive wellbeing practice that may help the body and mind settle.
Anxiety often pulls attention into future concerns. Forest therapy gently redirects attention into present-moment experience: the sound of leaves, the feeling of air on skin, the rhythm of walking, the shape of light and the steadiness of trees.
This is one reason guided forest bathing can feel different from ordinary relaxation. It gives the nervous system something simple and real to orient towards.
For people living in dense urban environments, that kind of sensory reset can be valuable. The forest becomes more than a place to visit. It becomes a place to practise calm.
Further reading: Kotera et al. systematic review and meta-analysis.