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Updated: Dec 11, 2025
05:33
Measuring Biophysical and Psychological Stress Levels Following Visitation to Three Locations with Differing Levels of Nature
Published on: June 19, 2019
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A Guide to Nature Immersion: Psychological and Physiological Benefits
Pei Yi Lim1, Denise Dillon1, Peter K H Chew1
1Psychology Department, James Cook University, Singapore 387380, Singapore.
Summary
Nature immersion, whether guided or unguided, enhances nature connectedness and mood. Specific segments of guided forest therapy walks also significantly lowered heart rate.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Psychology
- Ecopsychology
- Nature-based Interventions
Background:
- Nature exposure offers significant physiological and psychological benefits.
- Nature immersion programs, including Guided Forest Therapy, are increasingly utilized.
- These programs use structured sensory activities for safe and effective nature engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of guided versus unguided nature immersion.
- To assess impacts on mood, nature connectedness, and heart rate.
- To identify specific effective segments within guided forest therapy.
Main Methods:
- 51 participants were allocated to either guided or unguided nature immersion.
- Nature connectedness (CNS) and mood (PANAS) were measured pre- and post-immersion.
- Heart rate was continuously monitored throughout the 2-hour experience.
Main Results:
- All participants showed improvements in nature connectedness and mood post-immersion.
- No significant differences were found between guided and unguided conditions for overall changes.
- Heart rate significantly decreased during the third and fifth segments of guided walks.
Conclusions:
- Both guided and unguided nature immersion positively impact psychological well-being.
- Guided Forest Therapy may offer specific physiological benefits during certain activity segments.
- Further research can explore optimizing guided nature immersion protocols.
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