Frontiers in Psychology (Jun 2025)

The feasibility of a two-day intensive forest therapy incorporating mindfulness practices for natural disaster-affected individuals: a brief report

  • Yongjun Lee,
  • Yongjun Lee,
  • Yeji Yang,
  • Yeji Yang,
  • Ji-Eun Pyo,
  • Beom Lee,
  • ChangHyou Kim,
  • Jeong-Ho Choi,
  • Kee-Hong Choi,
  • Kee-Hong Choi

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1603924
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 16

Abstract

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This study investigated the feasibility and psychological benefits of a two-day intensive forest therapy program incorporating mindfulness practices for individuals affected by natural disasters. The sample comprised 110 participants, including those who had either experienced wildfires or floods or served as first responders. The results revealed significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and stress pre- and post-intervention, alongside improvements in vitality and mindfulness. Furthermore, enhanced mindfulness significantly moderated reductions in anxiety, stress, and depression. These findings indicate that intensive forest therapy is a viable and promising intervention for improving the mental health of disaster-affected populations.

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